One of the biggest lessons of my life has been learning how to let others go and be as they are. From my mother and father, to my boyfriends and ex-boyfriends- allowing others the freedom, time and space to do what is best for them, even if I disagree, even if I want something else for them.

For those of us who like to help people, there’s a fine line that we must walk when it comes to interfering in other people’s lives. And for those of us who just like to control people, you’ve already crossed the line. Stop trying to change folks and focus on what you yourself need to change (that’s what I had to tell myself).

I’ve come to understand that everyone is on his or her own unique path and our paths cross or connect for reasons only God knows. My role is not to hinder another’s path by interfering without divine guidance, nor is it to judge the steps they take, nor is it to become offended by their choices, even when those choices affect me. My role is to be the highest expression of my self at all times, which is love. This is what I’m striving for.

So if my role is to BE love, then my role is to accept and love others unconditionally. But to do this, I have to first be able to love and accept myself unconditionally…something I’m just now growing into. –love, sj