I was reading one of those silly “Quote of the Day” sites. Not really sure why, but I ran across this random quote “Judgments prevent us from seeing the good that lies beyond appearances.” by Wayne Dyer, a self help author. It struck a chord in me immediately and stopped me in my tracks. Judgment is something I have been thinking about a lot lately- Its something I have been feeling a lot of lately. Like an eerie fog that has been following me around, I just haven’t been able to shake the feeling.
I am by nature a people pleaser. I want everyone to like me, I always have. In fact, I remember a day in high school when I was told something awful another girl said about me. Something about being stuck up or thinking I was better than everyone. It irked me so much that someone could be so mean, someone I didn’t even know, someone I had never even talked to. “How could could she judge me and never even spoken to me? Didn’t she know I was a nice person? Had someone stood up for me when she said these things?” The thoughts tormented me for weeks. I couldn’t stand the thought of this girl thinking and saying these things about me. It was my first lesson in life about judgment. People judge based upon what they see, not what lies under neath.
When I first started photography I remember being terrified of showing people my work. I knew in showing them my work, they would in turn formulate an opinion of not only my work, but perhaps me, and it might not be a good one. My immediate reaction to this realizations was to find cover, hide under a rock, lock myself in my closet, and never post another picture again. The less I show, the less I’ll be judged right?
As I have progressed on this journey through starting a business, starting a blog, sharing my work, my thoughts, and my lifestyle, the room for judgment has only increased. I have felt this cloud over me heavier now more than ever. It has caused me to draw back from relationships, second guess myself, and bred a new found fear in my life which I am not okay with.
With all of this so heavy on my heart I knew I had to turn to someone, turn to God. Immediately he came to me with this:
Matthew 11:28-29 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
The words were exactly what I needed to hear. I was able to lay my burdens down and an immediate sense of peace overcame me. I was filled with a new confidence that only He can bring. I know if I remain true to who God made me to be and find my source of strength in Him that it will be okay. I don’t have to carry the fear, the insecurity, or self doubt. I just need to be me.
The world will judge the appearance, the things they see, but if you know who you are inside and cling to your source of strength, you can let the haters hate and let the judgment roll off your back- finding rest for your soul.
Headbands by Dolce Vita Mia. Check out her Etsy store here.
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