How is your Self Esteem?

You may not know how to raise your self-esteem, but you definitely know how to stop lowering it.
-Awo Osun Kunle

Self Esteem is a sense of value and worth that comes from a positive self-image.
Self-esteem begins with you and extends to all that you do.
With the belief that your best is always good enough, no one but you can destroy your self-esteem.
You destroy your self-esteem when you do not keep your word.
When you do not honor the agreements and commitments you make.
If you say "yes" when you really mean "no."
When you don't follow your first thought.
It does not matter what your environment may be.
It is of little consequence what your past has been.
It is not your concern what others may be saying or doing.
It is only in your mind that you build and destroy your self-esteem.

Passage taken from Acts of Faith by Iyanla Vanzant
(A daily meditation and affirmation guide)
January 9

No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. -Eleanor Roosevelt

Who Am I?

Have you ever found yourself asking, Who am I? If not, this question should entice every individual to consider their existence, where they derived, and what constitutes their purpose. During the month of February we traditionally reach back into time to reflect upon generations of people who have made incredible strides towards excellence. We can use their accomplishments and triumphs as illustrations of commitment, determination, ambition, scholastic achievement, and confidence.

Susan L. Taylor says that "Whatever we believe about ourselves and our ability comes true for us." To grasp this understanding would truly unveil the talents, intellect, and limitless capabilities of all women. Knowing who you are means recognizing your strengths and tackling opportunities that will allow you to incessantly evolve into what you are truly meant to be. Be aware that in discovering who you are will include stumbling, falling faint and even questioning your purpose.

However, being unsure, growing weary and sometimes failing are the components of life that humble our spirits and create a balance that reminds us we don't have to be perfect. Yet, overcoming your fears and your challenges is what builds character and in essence will in part define who you are. Ephesians 6:10-12 tells us to "Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." Therefore, in knowing who you are, and who's you are, also know that you will never stand alone. In close, Ralph Ellison once said, "When I discover who I am, then I'll be free."

Ashley Scott
Co-Founder

Self-Image Evaluation

Happy February to all of you! I hope that your year has been positive and productive as you hope it would be thus far. I wanted to take a minute to talk with you about positive self-image. Media and publications portray so many beautiful ladies as mere images that only function for their beauty. I understand that most women have ambition, goals, and intelligence. However, some get lost in someone else's image and forget who the are. Don't let trying to be perfect in someone else's image cause you to forget who you are. You can ALWAYS upgrade material items, but NEVER downgrade your morals, self respect, and positive self image. Remember I am you, you are me and we are representations of SSE.

Jamese Beazer
Natl. Executive VP of Finance