Third in a series. Want to add your essay to this series?
It’s all about me. I believe in me.
I believe in my heart, brains, conscience and consciousness, and my value. Self-involvement is my nature, as it is yours.
It helps that I can’t change anybody else. I can’t smooth away a wife’s glower at seeing me. I can’t hurry a child’s reply to my texts. I can’t re-seize a friendship I let slip away. I can fix only myself, if rarely.
All I have is me now. Yet when I un-churn enough to realize the needs of others, I can find satisfaction. I like to help. I over-tip harried servers. I empathize with those in need. I buttress self-worth with small replies, unexpected and un-remarked kindnesses, the willingness to do the next right thing.
The most fulfilling is when my kindnesses remain anonymous. To stroll away without applause redoubles my pleasure. It’s the secret smile I revel in alone. To light up another person’s face warms the heart.
Yet each kind gesture, at its core, is actually about the giver.
But enough about me.
What do you think of me?
More in this series
WHAT I BELIEVE: Jeff Gauger
WHAT I BELIEVE: Emily Toth
WHAT I BELIEVE: Donna Yelverton
WHAT I BELIEVE: Ten more writers on what they believe
Let us publish your ‘What I Believe’ essay
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