What I’ve copied below was recently posted by a friend on a social media site, and as I got to the end of reading it, I had a moment where life just literally stopped. My mind was blown by the simple truth in these words. I commented on the post that I didn’t know whether to give it the love (heart) emoji or the sad (crying face) emoji. The words were so powerful that they instantly made me see myself in a different light, and that deserved a “love” response. And the words were so powerful that they instantly made me realize how many years I’ve wasted of my life trying to be who I thought others wanted me to be based on my own perception of how they saw me.
I struggle more than I care to admit with trying to reason why anyone would want to choose me as a friend. This goes all the way back to my high-school years, and it exists usually within relationships where I perceive the other person in a way that, for me, makes them well above “average” and, thus, puts them on some kind of pedestal. Of course, that means I’m always below/beneath them, and from there comes my reasoning or lack thereof.
As I’m thinking through this process and typing these words, a comment given (and forgotten) a long, long time ago from a mentor told me that I didn’t get to choose who someone else can and cannot like, and if that person chooses to like me, that’s his/her right and privilege.
I really need to do some more introspection on this and make it a priority to focus on. I’ve started making a list of little quotes and goodies that I need to have in the forefront of my brain (you know, being ‘older’ means it’s time to start making lists to remember things). My plan is to add to the list as needed, and to review that list at least once daily to keep those thoughts in my focus.
And they say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks…
Ramblings and Ruminations 
I have read that post before about how we are a different version of ourselves to everyone we meet. It is mind blowing! I wish I had seen it when I wrote my thesis on Carl Jung for psychology. That statement is right up his alley! Anyways, I can relate to your thoughts in questioning why people would want to be friends with you. I am constantly reminding my best friend that she is not responsible for the version of her others create in their heads. Likewise, your mentor was right, it is not up to us to decide whether people like us or not. From what I have read from you, it does not surprise me that anyone would want to be your friend. You are nice, caring, and thoughtful. What’s not to like? I have been on the other side of the mirror, though, questioning what makes me so special to everyone else. I applaud your introspection and willingness to be the best possible version of yourself! I think we all should strive to be the person we most want to be. After all, we are the only one who has to live with ourselves 24 hours of the day. Thanks for sharing. I really enjoy your insights!
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So true! Amazing quote
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You have given me an epiphany!
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I love all the versions of you!
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Geoff, I have only given you what you were ready to accept. This did the same to me, which is why I had to share it!
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Being true to ourselves is the most important thing, not trying to impress or be who we think someone else wants us to be. I know that I am enjoying getting to know you on here. Great insights. ❤
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