This week I am going to combine the weekly lesson with a cause, as the lesson sort of fits indirectly.

For the last week or so I have seen some amazing pictures that speak a powerful message about violence against women.  Some of the images have evoked such a heart wrenching emotion even if they are just pictures of avatars supporting a cause.  Though the reality is that for some it may be personal for themselves or for others they may know that have been personally affected.     

November 25th has been designed as International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women by the United Nations, to help raise awareness that many women around the world are subjected to rape, domestic violence and other forms of violence.   You can learn more about this issue at the United Nations website.   In Second Life, support of this important cause has been ongoing since 2010 through, “2Lei in Second Life”, an event with the goal of raising awareness of the issue and to say NO to the violence against women in the world.   You can learn about all the events at their blog. 

Having worked with organizations that help women who have been abused, the one thing that I learned is that many have stayed in abusive relationships for years before reaching the end of their rope and seeking help.  My picture is for those women who remain in their situations.  You might be surprised by some of the reasons women stay — fear, guilt, children, economic dependence, religious beliefs and believe it or not, love.  The emotion does not cease to exist for some women during or after abuse.   Yes, heart breaking. 

Please support this worthy cause.  

Now for the lesson.  In essence, it is about claiming your greatness by acknowledging all the things you like about yourself.  How I feel it fits is… if you don’t have self-love then it’s usually a given that there is going to be a lack of self-worth and low self-esteem.  This only makes it easier to fall into abusive relationships.  

Hope this lesson is meaningful to some. 

Lesson 26: Sing Your Praises

When we have a great deal of self-love, we’re able to acknowledge our strengths, talents, and God-given gifts, and we feel comfortable sharing our gifts with others. Contrary to what many of us were taught, acknowledging our greatness doesn’t diminish those around us. In fact, when we allow ourselves to shine, we give others permission to do the same. Self-love means loving ourselves enough to allow all of our magnificence to be seen.

Your self-love assignment this week is to acknowledge all the things you like about yourself and share them with the people in your life. This is the week to claim your greatness and sing your praises!

Your Self-Love Assignment

Make a list of everything you do well. What unique skills and talents do you possess? Do you have a nice singing voice? Good handwriting? Are you a talented artist or writer? Do you have an eye for fashion or a refined sense of style?

Now look at your positive character traits. Are you a loyal friend? A good listener? Do you know how to motivate others or make them laugh? This week, share with at least three people whom you don’t normally confide in, all the things you do well. Notice how sharing your gifts lights you (and those around you) up.

Self-Love Points Earned

Give yourself 50 points for every person you share your strengths with.