Abandonment

“Take a look around and see—to the right, to the left—no one is there who cares for me. There’s no way out of here; no one cares about the state of my soul.” (Psalm 142:4 VOICE)

I know all the dogs in our neighborhood circle. When I see a strange dog running loose, I try to figure out if it is lost or abandoned. Most of the time, the dogs have just wandered away from adjoining neighborhoods. However, there are times when someone will dump an unwanted pet and drive away. 

How can you tell if a dog is lost or abandoned? A dog that is recently lost seems trusting and secure. It might be dirty from being outside, but you can tell this is just temporary. An abandoned dog looks forlorn and insecure. It has usually been neglected for a while. The damage is usually deeper than superficial dirt.

Unlike dogs, most human adults are able to care for themselves. The cosmetics and fashion industries have convinced consumers that self-care is about maintaining external appearances. This is a facade. True self-care is more than skin-deep; it is soul-deep. When I meet strangers, I look for signs of internal care, not external appearance. I try to figure out the state of their soul. I am deeply saddened when I encounter those who have abandoned themselves.

What does self-abandonment look like? Here are a few signs:

--not showing up for yourself

--not committed to yourself

--being disloyal and dishonest 

--leaving yourself unprotected

--accepting lies and allowing yourself to be manipulated

--not trusting your instincts

--not honoring who you are

--imagining that your worth is based on externals

Even if no one else notices or values you, do not abandon yourself. Show up, stand up, and speak up for yourself. Stay committed to your well-being. Be loyal and honest at all times. Protect and honor your inner being. Nourish and care for your soul. Constantly remind yourself that you are worthy and loved by God. Be secure in this knowing.