"Let none look down on you because you are young .
. . but be an example to the community in speech, conduct,
love, faith, and purity." 1 Timothy 4:12
Topic of the month: Self Esteem - Feeling
Good About Yourself with Jesus
For most kids in middle school - and even for most adults
- self-image has less to do with what we think about OURSELVES
and more to do with what OTHERS think about us. Self-image
also has to do with how we compare ourselves to other people
whom we admire. And most of us don't want to stand out from
everyone else because we're afraid of being teased or criticized
for not "fitting in".
It's easier to try and 'fit in' and be like other people
we admire, even if it means changing our appearance or behaving
in different ways than we normally would. After a while,
the person we are trying to be on the outside does not fit
who we really are on the inside.
But try to remember that you are exactly who God created
you to be! You may not have realized the full potential
of your gifts, but He loves the REAL YOU!
Your challenge: DON'T compare yourself to others.
Try and see yourself as GOD sees you!
Points to Ponder:
1. How would you define self-image or self-esteem?
2. What four words would your friends use to describe you?
3. What four words would your parents use to describe you?
4. What four words would YOU use to describe you?
5. What four words would Jesus use to describe you?
6. What is at least one thing that you like about your appearance?
7. What is at least one thing that you like about yourself,
NOT related to your appearance?
8. If Jesus were standing with you right now, what might
he say to you that would make you feel better about yourself?
Cool Catholic Websites for Teens:
www.Americancatholic.org
(under "Update Your Faith" - click on "Youth
Update")
www.disciplesnow.com
