Some of the embarrassments and failures we buried in our past are constitutive parts of who we are. A lot of us are hiding the obstacles we had to overcome because of pride. It's not illegal to acknowledge the roll our mistakes played in making us who we are.
One of the most liberating things we can do is accept ourselves. This doesn't mean we don't work to overcome our limitations, but we have to accept every foible and idiosyncrasy that makes us unique. You are allowed to love yourself.
Loving yourself is empowering. Self-esteem isn't gifted to us; it, like faith, is hard won. No one can give it to you, and no one can take it from you once you have it. Your trials and tribulations are proof that you are a conqueror. Why are you hiding your scars? Why are you hiding your testimony? Why are you denying yourself?
Too often we allow ourselves to be prisoners to the cult of perfection. You don't have to be perfect to stand with your shoulders back and head up. You don't have to wait for the world around you to affirm your dignity. If you love and accept yourself you can stand in a room full of people who don't like or respect you and be unfazed. Every mistake you've ever made can be something you draw strength from. Don't hide the things that make you possible.
