Seeing one’s self through another’s eyes

Josh was excited about the Christmas gift that he got me, that he insisted I open it early.  It was a necklace, on which he obviously spent a good amount of money.  He eagerly asked if I liked it and went on to explain that when he saw it, it made him think of me.  He said it looked classy, yet unique and really hoped I liked it.  I have to admit I was taken back.  For starters, I was surprised at the thought that went into his choice and I was surprised as it was not a piece I would have picked out for myself.  I didn’t want to tell him this as he was obviously very proud of his choice and I did like the necklace, I just didn’t see me in it.  As I looked at the necklace though and thought about his description, I began to see what he did.  It was a unique piece and it did have sort of a vintage class to it that I enjoy, but for some reason, that just wasn’t overly obviously at first glance.  The more I wore this necklace and the more I thought about what it represented and the more I realized just how much this really was the perfect necklace for me.

Had I been the one in the jewelry store, I would have walked by it, but somehow Josh saw something in me that I did not.  It made me appreciate my husband for seeing things in me that I don’t see or neglect to acknowledge.  Sometimes I learn more about myself from learning how others view me.  It makes me wonder about the times I may have been too quick to judge something as not my style or simply “not me” without taking into account this is a representation of what someone else sees in me.  How much better would we know and love ourselves if only we could see ourselves the way others viewed us?  I know I am my own worst critic, which allows me to downplay my accomplishments and criticize my assets.

This gift from Josh touched me not only for the though and the gift itself, but also for the reminder of who I am and how I am seen.  Especially lately as I have been feeling invisible, it was nice to know someone was watching and seeing me.  So this holiday if by chance you have a similar experience, stop and remember what people see in you.  I know it is a motivator to be the best me I can and to allow myself to love me so I can better love others. (sorry I feel if I went back over this I could say it all better, but this screaming baby of mine it telling me otherwise) Love you all!