Words really do hold power, especially when put together in a certain way. They can change your whole outlook on life.

Whilst perusing online I came across a poem that I wanted to share with you all.

I would not say I am a big fan of poetry but there is something about this one that spoke to me. It was not only a reminder of how much art and truth rests in verse, but also what an incredible journey life is.

It was said the poem was written by Charlie Chaplin at the age of 70. I cannot verify this as true (I realise many quotes and poems credited to a certain person online are not always true). The poem has also been attributed to Kim McMillen who wrote a book called ‘When I Loved Myself Enough’.

I was captivated by its words and the message contained. To me, the poem reveals a life lived with lessons and growth.

So, have a read. See what you think…

As I began to love myself
I found that anguish and emotional suffering
are only warning signs that I was living
against my own truth.
Today, I know, this is Authenticity.

As I began to love myself
I understood how much it can offend somebody
if I try to force my desires on this person,
even though I knew the time was not right
and the person was not ready for it,
and even though this person was me.
Today I call this Respect.

As I began to love myself
I stopped craving for a different life,
and I could see that everything
that surrounded me
was inviting me to grow.
Today I call this Maturity.

As I began to love myself
I understood that at any circumstance,
I am in the right place at the right time,
and everything happens at the exactly right moment.
So I could be calm.
Today I call this Self-Confidence.

As I began to love myself
I quit stealing my own time,
and I stopped designing huge projects
for the future.
Today, I only do what brings me joy and happiness,
things I love to do and that make my heart cheer,
and I do them in my own way
and in my own rhythm.
Today I call this Simplicity.

As I began to love myself
I freed myself of anything
that is no good for my health –
food, people, things, situations,
and everything that drew me down
and away from myself.
At first I called this attitude a healthy egoism.
Today I know it is Love of Oneself.

As I began to love myself
I quit trying to always be right,
and ever since
I was wrong less of the time.
Today I discovered that is Modesty.

As I began to love myself
I refused to go on living in the past
and worrying about the future.
Now, I only live for the moment,
where everything is happening.
Today I live each day,
day by day,
and I call it Fulfillment.

As I began to love myself
I recognized
that my mind can disturb me
and it can make me sick.
But as I connected it to my heart,
my mind became a valuable ally.
Today I call this connection Wisdom of the Heart.

We no longer need to fear arguments,
confrontations or any kind of problems
with ourselves or others.
Even stars collide,
and out of their crashing, new worlds are born.
Today I know: This is Life!

So, what do you think? Did it talk to you too? Let me know in the comments below.

Until next time.

Diane

PLEASE HELP SUPPORT ME AND MY WORK