what is self love?

self love, first and foremost, does not appear arrogant, narcissistic, selfish, or vain.

Self love, in my eyes, can actually appear extraordinarily humble and quiet — composed and gracious — readily able to let others shine, more than eager to dish abundant praises and lift others up.

This is because those with self love have their self worth innate and intrinsic; there is little to no need for external validation because it is held internally. One with true self love does not need to make great displays compulsively, one with true self love does not need to make others smaller in order to make oneself larger.

One with true self love does not need to grasp, claw, or fight tooth and nail for a sense of power, position, status, or recognition. One with self love may naturally come into such things when self expression flows naturally– however, such forms of worldly rank, real or perceived, are not usually the end for which one with true self love seeks.

Self love can make others feel loved for they have a full cup to pour from. Self love can help others feel confident for there is true confidence to be shared with the world. Self love encourages others to do the very same. Self love is service to the whole, for one with true self love necessarily lifts others up by virtue of what it is. Self love, at its highest possible capacity, has a collective mindset — one for all, all for one. Self love can love the world totally and truly.