Author Darlene J. Conard

At one point, I found myself caught in a relentless cycle of self-reflection, constantly questioning my identity to the point of confusion. It felt like I was trapped in a loop, with memories from the past persisting around me. I kept reliving the same circumstances in my mind, feeling the familiar weight of emotions wash over me, and hearing the same voices whisper reminders of what I once was. Each iteration brought no new insights, only a haunting sense of déjà vu that made breaking free from this mental spiral difficult.

I recall the heartfelt moments I shared with the children I worked with. Their voices filled with longing as they asked, “I miss the other, Darlene. Why are you trying to change?” Their innocent curiosity struck a chord in me, making me reflect on the essence of who I am and the truth behind wanting to change.

Throughout my life, I’ve often engaged in a relentless cycle of comparison, constantly measuring my abilities against those of others. This preoccupation with how I stack up against my peers consumed me, overshadowing the unique gifts that I have been blessed with. In my relentless pursuit to fit into molds crafted by societal expectations and the opinions of others, I lost sight of the beauty inherent in my talents. It became clear that I was neglecting the vibrant aspects of myself, waiting patiently to be recognized and embraced. As I began reflecting on this, I realized that the journey to self-acceptance is not about imitation but celebrating the distinctive qualities that make me who I am.

The story of the magic mirror has always captivated me. I would often find myself asking it questions that echoed deep insecurities: “Tell me how I truly appear? Am I as wonderful as so-and-so? Who do I see in the reflection, magic mirror? What flaws do I possess?”

As I ponder these inquiries, I realize that we are surrounded by our image-reflectors, constantly sending back the opinions and perceptions of others. I’ve understood that these reflections can be uplifting and disheartening. In my life, the reassuring voices of my aunt and friends have become a balm for my spirit, reminding me, “It’s perfectly okay to embrace who you are.”

I am grateful that God desires us to be our authentic selves. It’s liberating to acknowledge that we are not obligated to absorb the negative judgments of others, for they do not hold the authority of the Creator. We are unique, deserving of acceptance and love just as we are.

There is no enchanted mirror that reflects my true self; instead, I seek to understand who I am by gazing upon my existence through the compassionate eyes of God.

 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 KJV

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

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