In 2002, I discovered a book entitled Imagine a Woman in Love with Herself: Embracing Your Wisdom and Wholeness (Conari Press, 1999). Growing through some self-esteem and relationship issues myself at the time, I purchased the book for myself, but with the intent to use it as a basis for a self-development workshop for collegiate women. The book by Patricia Lynn Reilly is a marvelously empowering collection of 20 self-affirming, honoring, healing and nurturing statement clusters and exercises.
I remember feeling as though I unearthed an ancient treasure. Why I ever let that book out of my sight, I don’t know. Time would reveal that affirmations support alignment and I, obviously, needed checkpoints. I would later take several slight, but dramatic detours.
Several years, and many experiences, later, all I can think about is a world where men realized their true power. I wonder what the world would be if men embraced their true essence, expressed themselves and followed their bliss. I imagine a man in love with himself.
In the self-help/self-improvement section of book stores, rarely if ever do I find resources encouraging men to find themselves, become one with their personal essence, seek inner knowledge or connect with nature. There’s no space for men to process their childhood experiences without stigma. It’s as though the world believes men are soul-less machines. It’s no wonder many are ticking bombs.
I am a feminist and because of that, I’ve had men say that I hate them. That has never been the case. Father, brother, cousin, lover, friend…I see them in their highest light and expect them to rise to the occasion.
“My willingness to be intimate with my own deep feelings creates the space for intimacy with another.” -Shakti Gawain
“Your problem is you’re … too busy holding onto your unworthiness.” -Ram Dass
“Scarcity of self value cannot be remedied by money, recognition, affection, attention or influence.” –Gary Zukav
“Too many people overvalue what they are not and undervalue what they are.” -Malcolm S. Forbes
What messages do you send the men in your life? In what ways do you support their healing??
The Rise Up 
Comments on: "Let’s Imagine a Man in Love with Himself" (2)
First thing, when you took your eyes off of that wonderful book, you put it in the hands of someone who needed it, that was me. That book was the beginning of me wanting to change my life. I am so grateful to you for that and many other books you have blessed me with. Thank you! Also you have said a mouthful of truth, Yes men need uplifting as well as women. I also Imagine a man in love with himself…….
This indeed was a very deep subject. I believe that you have to use your personal faith to go through inner peace and healing through pain and grief in life. Also you have find what makes you happy, such as music, poetry, writting or just helping others who need encouraging through the day. It takes your mind off you and focus on someone else, you are also sharing your time, your love and contribution to society as well. It leaves you being fullfilled, not angry or bitter. 🙂