Last week, I said “I do” to the most important person in my life – me. At first this might strike you as odd. That was my impression five years ago when I’d first learned of people making vows to themselves, but I didn’t have then the perspective and openness of mind from which I benefit today.
I must admit that, up until now, I’ve been very hesitant to tell but a few close friends about my marriage to myself. I was afraid of being seen as having fallen completely off the deep end, but I awoke Sunday morning to my wise inner voice telling me this is exactly what to write about this week.
The more I contemplated being open about this, the more sense it made. If I’d just tied the knot with the man of my dreams, I’d be looking to shout it from the rooftops for the whole world to hear, so why hold back from sharing this sacred union?
What does it mean to marry one’s self? Much like a traditional union between two people, it means making vows that consecrate my commitment to myself. I have vowed to love, honor and be true to myself and my dreams no matter what, to always keep my eyes on the ball of living – and loving – my life, all in.
I will not hold back from reaching for my dreams, even if the going gets too rough or I encounter seemingly insurmountable obstacles. I will not allow fear or external influences to cause me to play small and settle for a smaller life.
Marrying myself doesn’t mean I’ve traded a life of partnership with another for partnership with myself. I still will marry the man of dreams and share my life in beautiful partnership with him.
Being clear and committed in my promises to myself only sets me up for a more fulfilling, successful relationship with my partner. Because I’m committed to being the partner to myself that I want and need, I don’t look externally for someone else to fill gaps that only I can fill in the first place.
A dear wise and intuitive friend had suggested I consider “marriage” to myself at the end of the summer, and I immediately knew it was exactly the answer to seal the deal of the trajectory of my life. It made perfect sense because I always follow through when I give my word to someone. Why not give myself my word to love, honor and be true to myself and to my dreams?
There is discernible energy and power that come from giving life to our intentions by putting them in writing, and even more from declaring them out loud. The “wedding” was on.
Much like a giddy fiancé, I immediately began looking for and found the perfect ring, a delicate diamond band I’ve worn on my right hand (pictured above) ever since as a constant reminder of my self-commitment.
I took quite some time to write my vows, to get it all right for this commitment of and for my lifetime. On December 31st, I marked the end of an extraordinary year by making my special vows to myself in a sacred ceremony, and in so doing, I teed things up for an even more stupendous New Year.
Do you have intentions for yourself that you think about frequently but have limited their existence to your silent thoughts?
Bring your commitments to life by writing them and declaring them out loud. You’ll be amazed by the subtle but powerful difference that comes from breathing life into and activating your intentions.
