Respond With Grace

Stag is the epitome of grace, gentleness, and sensitivity. Fleet and sure-footed he might be, but even Stag can stumble and fall. He can do battle and inflict harm. He is not perfect, and nor are you.

We exist to experience life. During the span of our lifetime, we all make mistakes. We will do harm to others. We will also hurt ourselves. One such hurt is to believe the notion that you are flawed. You do have strengths and weaknesses, but flawed, you are not. Perfection is a human construct. Therefore, it could be asked, “What is a flaw?”

You have been taught to like and dislike aspects of yourself. You have been taught to see those aspects that you or others do not like as flaws. You have been taught to feel shame and to apologize for those flaws.

It’s time to divest yourself of shame. Instead, respond with gracious acceptance of your humanity. Like Stag, you are a beautiful, amazing, majestic creature who sometimes stumbles as you traverse your life path. Stand proud with your head high and let your spirit shine like the sun. Improve yourself because you embrace growth and aspire to reach your fullest potential, not because you believe you are not good enough. You are not only good enough, you are enough.

And in those moments when you falter and stumble, cause another pain, or they cause you pain, again, respond with grace, compassion, and empathy. Apologize for your transgressions, and forgive, if you can, when others do you harm.If you cannot forgive, then keep your dignity in tact and walk away.