Stained Glass and Broken Windows

We always appreciate something after time goes by, we experience its true value and realize that we simply can't live without it. We learn to appreciate people and things when we know their value. When value isn't recognizable in something, it becomes like stained glass and broken windows. 

"Hurt people hurt people" is true, we see it almost daily. It's mainly due to the fact that people don't take the time needed to heal from traumatic situations, disappointments and failures. Society conditions us to believe that failure equals weakness. This idea influences people which is why people don't like to admit when they're wrong, hurt, ashamed or embarrassed. Instead, they display unfavorable character traits that are harmful emotionally, mentally and sometimes physically to others. 

Placing value in self first allows us to have self actualization, sustainable relationships and investments. 

#1 - Self Actualization 
If I can't see the value in myself, then I can't recognize and appreciate it in anything else. More often true than not, people become displaced and detached from things when they no longer can connect to its value. Society can beat down our self esteem so much to the point where we no longer have the passion to exceed in our gifts and talents. We become overwhelmed and lose grip of the value we had within ourselves. Embracing who you are and your place in the world allows one to feel empowered thus enabling them to be a better person for self and others. 

#2 -Relationships 
Regardless if it's a friendships with classmates, neighbors or colleagues at

work, church or organizations; a spouse, partner or puppy love, we cannot sustain viable relationships with other people when we don't value ourselves. The example of the mother or fatherless children who recall their parents being depressed, on drugs, alcohol or in need of medication don't see someone valuing their lives or the people they love. When children see people fighting, killing, stealing from others, that doesn't reflect them valuing them. Value connects the idea of love and respect through actions seen within healthy relationships. 

#3 - Investments 
If you are invested in something, you appreciate its value. That's what's makes investments valuable. Our society gives such skewed views of investments. You can't reap a harvest with no seed! Money doesn't bring value to you. If you only see yourself as having value when you have money, when the money is gone there goes your will to live, integrity, passion, happiness, etc. Before you can invest in anything be it education, family, home ownership, relationships, business, etc., you have to know your self worth. You have recognize the value in you before you can invest in anything else.