Children are amazing at uncomplicated get things for us. The other day there was this adorable little girl with her family in the line at the cafeteria where I work. I overheard the cashier say "you sure are beautiful", to which the little girl replied "I know". Her response had everyone laughing. It really got me thinking about how I wish I could take a compliment like that.
When did I loose my ability to receive a compliment? At what age or what event occurred that told me I that when someone said I was beautiful, smart, or talented I couldn't respond with "I know"?
Okay, okay. "I know" may not be the best response. "Thank you" seems to be more appropriate. We don't want to be or seem prideful when accepting a compliment.
Compliments are blessings to be given and received. When I choose not to accept a compliment I am not only choosing not to receive a blessing, but I am also denying the blessing of making someone else happy. Me not soaking up that blessing is freedom of choice, my loss. Me stealing someone else's blessing is a sin. I am essentially calling that sweet person a liar when I say "no, I'm not beautiful".
A lot of the denial associated with receiving compliments has to do with self love. Doubting my own worth, not loving myself, and poor self confidence push me to reject compliments; and to call others liars which in turn damages their self worth.
I tell my children everyday how beautiful or smart or taleneted or loved they are. It isn't something I want them to ever deny to themselves or anyone else. But I am not holding myself to the same standard.
So today I am challenging myself and whoever is reading this to make a commitment to accept compliments with grace and thankfulness as they are blessings to all who partake in them.
And because you are beautiful and loved.
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