Hola! Fina here, and I am often asked how I manage to stay so happy and positive all the time. Let me tell you, it wasn’t always easy! Today I want to share with you my journey from shy and self-conscious to self-love and acceptance, and hopefully, inspire you to embark on your own quest for lasting joy.
Growing Up Shy
I had a pretty shy personality while growing up, and I used to cringe whenever I found myself in the spotlight. I had a mischievous brother who, like any brother would, teased me about my appearance. My mouth, my teeth, and the way my gums showed when I smiled were his favorite targets. To avoid being embarrassed, I would often cover my mouth when I laughed or smiled. Little did I know then that this seemingly innocuous gesture of concealing my smile marked the beginning of a journey toward accepting my true self and gaining confidence in the unique qualities that defined me.
A Transformational Journey
As I grew older, I got married and found solace in Christianity. Reading the Bible and learning about the Lord's wisdom changed my perspective on life.
One verse that resonated with me was Psalm 139:13: "For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb." This verse reminded me that I was created in the image of God, just the way He wanted me to be.
This simple yet profound verse served as a powerful reminder that I was created in the image of God, exactly as He intended me to be, flaws and all. It became a cornerstone of my faith, reaffirming my sense of self-worth and helping me embrace the unique qualities that make me who I am.
Embracing My Quirkiness
This newfound understanding slowly but surely nurtured a sense of confidence within me. I started to genuinely value all those quirky and distinct qualities that made me who I was, realizing that the Lord had intentionally designed me in this way. It was like I had stumbled upon a treasure chest of self-acceptance and self-love, and this realization was like a breath of fresh air in my life.
With this newfound self-assuredness, I began to notice a remarkable transformation within myself. My happiness began to flow from this wellspring of self-confidence, radiating into various aspects of my life and affecting how I approached challenges and interacted with those around me.
This journey toward self-acceptance and self-love, fueled by my faith, not only reshaped my self-image but also enriched my relationships and outlook on life.
Jeremiah 17:7 became a guiding light in my life: "Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him." I found my confidence in the Lord's love and the knowledge that He never leaves my side.
The Power of Friendship
During this journey, the Lord also brought a wonderful friend into my life. Suzanne had a big smile, just like me, and we instantly clicked. Her favorite phrase, "God loves me, what's your problem?" became a daily mantra for us. Our friendship was built on the shared understanding that the Lord's love gives us the strength to embrace ourselves wholeheartedly. This newfound friendship, accompanied by our mutual faith, served as a continuous source of encouragement and affirmation, reinforcing the idea that we were both wonderfully created in the image of our loving God.
Starting My Days with Faith
Most mornings, I begin my day by reading and meditating on God's word. This practice helps me start the day encouraged and grounded in my faith. It serves as a constant reminder of whose I am and provides the assurance that the Lord is with me to navigate whatever challenges may arise. As I immerse myself in the scripture, I'm reminded of whose I am and the unconditional love that the Lord showers upon me. This daily ritual has become my anchor, helping me stay centered, focused, and motivated in my journey of self-acceptance and faith.
The Journey to Happiness
I want to stress that this journey to happiness was not an overnight transformation. It took many days, weeks, months, and even years to reach the point where I am today. If you find yourself where I once was, longing for a better place, know that you can get there with persistence and faith. Keep moving forward, one day at a time, and you will discover the happiness you deserve.
In Conclusion
I hope my story has been helpful and encouraging to you. My happiness comes from knowing that the Lord loves me, created me as He chose, and never leaves my side. If you're searching for a similar sense of happiness and self-acceptance, keep seeking and learning. It's a journey that requires persistence and learning, an ongoing process of self-discovery, and an embrace of your unique self. And always keep in mind that the Lord's love for you is unwavering, just as you are.
Adios, and I hope you'll come back to my site to hear more encouraging stories in the future! You can also keep up with me as my journey of happiness continues on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
