BS’D
A common misconception is that self-esteem equals arrogance. Nothing could be further from the truth. A healthy dose of self-esteem is borne out of the understanding that each Jewish person possesses unique value and G-duly character traits. This understanding enables us to serve Hashem with a full heart and to spiritually grow.
The key to healthy self-confidence is to appreciate that we all harbor a G-dly spark within us. This knowledge enables us to appreciate one’s worth and stay focused on one’s capabilities, while always remembering that Hashem created us as imperfect beings on a journey towards excellence. Self-esteem is based on our honest assessment of our current spiritual location while believing that we are capable of achieving more because of our innate, G-dly potential.
Arrogance is the false sense of being greater than other people. In contrast, self-esteem goes hand in hand with humility since with self-esteem we realize that our true worth is only from and due to our connection to HaKadosh Baruch Hu. We are humbled; knowing that all our talents, wisdom and actually every breath we take comes directly from the Source of life. This awareness instills in us the recognition that we are no better (or worse) than anyone else. Everyone is equal because we all come from the same Source.
Everything we have is a gift which can be taken away at any time. We are gifted with exactly what we need to fulfill our own unique, specific mission, to co-partner with Hashem in perfecting this world. Hashem does not make mistakes. He deliberately crafted us, instilling within us all the requirements we need in order to fulfill this unique purpose. Thus we are each different, important, special and necessary. And each one of us has the potential to be great.
