✨ Porch Reflections on Self-Love

Another adventure…

As I sit on my front porch, the afternoon breeze brushes gently against my cheeks — like a whisper of kindness. And I hear the word 'self-love.'

It comes in so many subtle expressions —

in textures,

in tastes,

in colors,

in confirmations,

approvals,

even hesitations.

It’s not just a feeling — it’s a whole spectrum of presence.

And I realize…

I’m beginning to embrace them all.

There was a time I lost my confidence completely.

I didn’t trust people

I didn’t trust life.

But worst of all — I didn’t trust myself.

It was disheartening.

It was destructive.

And for a while, it felt like that pain lived in every single day.

But something is changing now.

It’s getting better and better.

I see it clearly:

the damage others can do with their words,

their judgments,

their distance.

And I ask myself with humility —

Have I ever done that to someone?

Have I ever unknowingly bruised another’s self-image?

God, I hope not.

I truly hope not.

Because I know now how precious and fragile this inner world is.

And I also know how strong we are to reclaim it.

There’s a quote I’m holding close today:

“The only person you have to be 100% yourself around… is you.”

And I’m learning to show up for her again.

With softness. With patience. With love.

— Lorene 🌿