Distinguishing Between Self-Abandonment and Authentic Self-Gift

Episode 130

In this episode, I share my deep personal reflections on what it means to lay down my life in alignment with Christ, but without feeling lesser for it. Growing up in an enmeshed family system with rigid expectations of selflessness, ingrained through my Catholic upbringing, I faced challenges in understanding genuine self-sacrifice.

I discuss the subtle yet critical difference between self-abandonment—a state that breeds resentment and diminishes self-worth—and genuine self-gift which is free and joyful, enriching both myself and others.

My aim is to guide listeners on a path towards emotional health and authentic self-giving, highlighting the impact on family, faith, and self-perception of our ability to love authentically.

Watch this recording on YouTube.

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CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction: Reflecting on Self-Sacrifice and Authentic Living
00:37 Exploring the Roots: Family, Faith, and Self-Perception
01:35 The Struggle with Self-Abandonment and Seeking Approval
04:45 Discovering the Difference: Self-Abandonment vs. Self-Gift
07:38 The Journey Towards Emotional Health and Authentic Self-Gift
11:15 Understanding Self-Abandonment: Signs and Consequences
19:36 Embracing Self-Gift: The Path to Freedom and Joy
28:44 Conclusion: The Power of Authentic Self-Gift and Healing

TRANSCRIPT
Available here.

REFLECTION PROMPT
Do you struggle to make an authentic self-gift of yourself without abandoning yourself? Where might you have learned that abandoning yourself is a good thing? Are you open to changing your mind and believing that it is authentic self-gift that Christ is inviting you to make?

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