Page 29 - Voices-2022-02

FIELD NOTES

CUPID SENDS SELF-LOVE

B. Lee Coyne, ATMS

When we think of target practice on Valentines
Day, Cupid immediately comes to mind. We
usually think of a romance between two people.
However, we neglect the needed preliminary. I

point to SELF-LOVE. You probably raise your brows
to ask: What does that mean? My reply is that you
require a dose of intellect loving and honoring

yourself first before you can love another.
Yes, you must lead by showing the way to
others. Demonstrate that you are love worthy.
Some of us grew up in families where love did
not prevail. The disadvantage of having been

among poor role models can make the road more
difficult. But that can be overcome!!!
We need to do an imaginary backpack-full-of-

rocks exercise. That means viewing each stone
inside as a major setback of the past. Every stone
adds to our total weight. That slows down our
progress in moving forward.
Self-love involves an inventory. After that

comes a lineup from the heaviest to the lightest.
Then we cast them aside forever!
We cannot run away from ourselves. SELF-

LOVE is the appetizer. Loving another is our
entrée. Let’s keep it in that order.

VOICES! | FEBRUARY 2022 29