If you asked an ex-boyfriend of mine, they would most likely tell you I'm a locked safe that requires a blow torch and crowbar to open up. Even after the intense effort to pick my brain, I barely told them my favorite color. I'd much rather keep things surface level, but we're about to get extraordinarily friendly you and me. You see, I get uncomfortable even attempting to share my feelings, and I have a hard time coming up with physical features I love about myself. Unfortunately, I've been quite critical toward myself for some time now. I won't get into all the gory details, after all, we barely know each other. I will tell you this, though: Very recently, my blindfold has been ripped off in the most remarkable way. Because of the way I was raised and the things I've experienced, I believe I am a daughter of a God who has created every little and great thing that I see, hear, smell, touch, taste, and an unimaginable amount more. I've recently been reminded that He created me with a purpose. I am here because He needs me here. I've discovered that Satan's power cannot overtake me if I never "cease to call upon God" (Moses 1:18). But, today is especially incredible. My Old Testament Professor enthusiastically explained through Biblical examples that right after a spiritual experience, Satan WILL creep back in and do his best to distract me and draw me away from God. I'm now conscious of how aware I need to be of Satan's presence, especially right after a spiritual high. My abrasive criticism of myself comes most often after God has reaffirmed my faith, or I've recognized His presence in my life. Satan has whispered that I'm not good enough so many times, but I look back and understand how silly I was to fall for his lies. I am the specific creation of an all-knowing, all-powerful, merciful, loving, perfect being who knows my divine worth. I will not be fooled.

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" -Psalms 27:1