RECEIVING WITH GRACE...ACCEPTING COMPLIMENTS...

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Many of us find it difficult to accept compliments but easy to believe the slightest criticism. Today, right now, let's make a choice to fully accept compliments as we would a gift. Sincere compliments are gifts of praise. They are kudos given for wise choices or accomplishments or perhaps for just letting your light shine. There is no reason not to accept the gift of a kind word, butsome of us argue against them, even giving reasons why they aren't true. If we visualize the energy of a compliment, we would see beautiful, shining, positive energy being sent from the giver. That energy, if accepted graciously, would brighten our personal energy field. Our gratitude then returns to thegiver as warm, fuzzy, glowing energy, completing an even circuit of good feelings. But if we reject a compliment, what could have been a beautiful exchange becomes awkward and uncomfortable, making it a negative experience instead. Misplaced modesty can ruin the joy of sharing this connection with another person. But we can accept a compliment and still be modest by simplysaying "thank you." However, if compliments are rejected due to a lack of self-esteem, then the first step would be to start believing good things about yourself. Try giving yourself compliments in the mirror. Beyond the initial feelings of silliness, you will notice how good it feels and can watch the smile it puts on your face. The next step would be to see how it feels to give compliments to others. Notice how great you feel when you've made anotherperson's face brighten and how differently you feel when the gift you've offeredis rejected. Having experienced all sides, you will be ready to play along fully and willingly. We are our harshest critics. When we accept compliments, we are reminded thatothers see us through different eyes. All living beings crave positive attention, and we all deserve to have positive energy shared with us. Perhaps ifwe happily and gratefully accept compliments, we will give others permission to do so as well.