See Yourself Through Another's Eyes

I have a Christmas present for someone who wants something uniquely special. I also have a present for someone who wants something distinctly attractive. Last, but not least, I have the perfect gift for someone who wants a nice, pleasant experience of self-indulgence.

The only requirement, to receive the honor I'd like to bestow, is that you have been good to yourself. In particular, you have forgotten how old you are but remember what makes you blush. You have not worried about the number of breaths you take getting around but cherish the number of sights that take your breath away. You have earned your own respect by at least trying, if not accomplishing, something difficult for you. You have simply accepted compliments while learning patience with complaints. And, most importantly, you have tried to see yourself as someone who is loved for nothing more than yourself.

Perhaps you're thinking that my requirement is too much or too little to expect of you. Perhaps you never thought it necessary to be good to yourself. Perhaps you even think yourself unloved or, worse, unlovable. I'm sorry, then, but I can't offer the present that I have in mind for you.

Still, if you're willing to see yourself through my eyes, there's hope for the gift being received after all. If you can trust that I know what I'm offering you even though I really don't  know you, then we've got a deal. If you, like the disciple Jesus loved, can accept a higher and non-worldly reason for being worthy of forgiveness, then I think you're ready for this Christmas present.

If so, please go to where you can see yourself in the mirror. Now see someone who is uniquely special. See someone distinctly attractive as well. Have the nice, pleasant experience of loving yourself indulgently. Then, like the beloved disciple, realize that the gift you have been given needs to be made a gift to and for others.