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Writer's pictureDavid Sider

Spotlight: V. Ophelia Rigault

Embracing Self-Love: Rolling Out Your Own Red Carpet


Have you ever thought about having your own red carpet? As I watched a thought-provoking video on StyleLikeU's YouTube channel featuring FunkingAfter50, it made me reflect on the idea of waiting for society to validate our worth. The truth is, if we wait for external validation, we may find ourselves waiting indefinitely.

In my role as an EDI Educator, I am committed to dismantling racism, sexism, ableism, and all forms of discrimination. At the heart of these issues lies the systemic belief that certain groups are deemed "less than," leading to the erosion of their self-esteem and self-worth.

It is crucial that we do not rely on others to define our value. Instead, we must take the initiative to recognize, own, and embrace our worth by metaphorically rolling out our own red carpet of self-acceptance and self-love.

In my SHINE Club, a program for racialized children to rest in order for them to manage and build around racism - we emphasize the importance of self-love, with the "S" in Shine. It all begins with embracing and accepting ourselves unapologetically. When we venture out into the world, it is inevitable that our flaws will be visible, and not everyone will appreciate or understand us.


As a parent raising a young girl, I am faced with the task of preparing her for the reality that not everyone will like her. It may seem harsh, but I emphasize to her the importance of loving herself authentically. We teach her to prioritize loving herself and being true to who she is. We instill in her the belief that self-love and authenticity are the foundation upon which all other relationships are built.


We cannot wait for others to acknowledge our authenticity; we must first do so for ourselves. By embracing our true selves and rolling out our own red carpet of self-love, we set the stage for genuine connections and meaningful interactions with others.


I am excited about the prospect of rolling out the red carpet for the children and facilitators at The SHINE Club, creating a space where self-love and authenticity are celebrated and nurtured.


When are you going out to buy yourself a red carpet? Let me know.


In Community & Resiliency,


Ophelia 

Author, EDI Speaker, Trainer & Consultant 

Helping inclusive leaders to create cultures of belonging in the places they live, work, and play.


Connect on LinkedIn  


Blog Sources:

2. SHINE Club https://theshineclub.org/ 


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