shine like a jewel

     I want to shine like a jewel in the eyes of certain people. The more I want to shine in their eyes, the harder it is to be myself around them. I can’t relax and enjoy their company, because I’m trying so hard to make sure they enjoy mine. It’s exhausting.

     Every once in a while, I remember this simple truth: I am powerless over what other people think of me. That puts a skip in my step. It lets me stop trying, so I can relax and be myself. Before I know it, I’ve forgotten about wanting to shine in their eyes. I’m just enjoying their shining in mine.

“If I could be granted a wish, I’d shine like a jewel in your eyes.” Bette Midler

“Stop striving, relax, let go. . . .” Psalm 46:10