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In the book of Matthew it is clearly stated that we are to "-love thy neighbor as thyself." which still stands the test of time as being among the most important advice to live by. However, I think that we should look at the reverse a little more closely- to love yourself as you love your neighbor. I've found that, especially with our loved ones, it's very easy to shower them with endless love and considerations that we don't use with ourselves.
How often have you written off a spouse or friend's behavior as being directly related to a stressor in their lives or as situational when, if you were in the place yourself, you'd have found direct blame on your abilities or short comings?
How quickly are you to use the phrase "I'm sorry" or other self deprecating speech when asking something of a loved one or feeling as though you may have inconvenienced them? Finding a balance between how you treat yourself and how you treat the ones you care most for is a never ending struggle of boundaries and communication; an act that is more than worth the work put into it.
This Valentine's Day, I think it's important we remember to show just as much love and patience to ourselves as we do our loved ones. After all, we are as equally and wonderfully made as any other and therefore equally worthy of that same love.
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