The Power of Celebrating Yourself
The power of celebrating myself is something I had to learn late in life.
For many years, celebration felt unnecessary almost inappropriate when survival was the only goal. When I look back now, I can clearly see just how far I’ve come. I see a struggling single mom working three jobs, divorced, heartbroken, exhausted, and unsure how I was going to manage everything life kept placing in front of me. There were seasons when I felt like I was drowning in my own life, overwhelmed by responsibility and pain.
But God.
In His grace and mercy, He stepped in. He opened doors I never could have opened on my own and carried me when I didn’t have the strength to carry myself. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). Even when I didn’t understand what He was doing, He was working. I will never stop telling my testimony, because it is evidence that God can meet you in the middle of your mess and lead you into purpose.
Today, I get to witness something deeply meaningful. I get to watch my children step into adulthood, navigating life with growth, wisdom, and independence. My heart is filled with joy and pride as I see the fruit of obedience, perseverance, and faith both in my personal and professional life. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). The harvest didn’t come overnight, but it came right on time.
There was a season when I felt sadness and disappointment because the people I thought would celebrate me didn’t. Instead of encouragement, there were snide remarks. Instead of congratulations, there was silence. I began to downplay my accomplishments so I wouldn’t appear boastful or make others uncomfortable. I learned to shrink my joy and minimize my growth.
But God began to teach me something important.
Celebrating yourself is not pride; it is gratitude. It is acknowledging what God has done, what He has brought you through, and who He is shaping you to be. “Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story.” (Psalm 107:2). Today, I celebrate myself. I am proud of the woman I am becoming through faith, obedience, and hard work. I live intentionally, using the gifts God placed inside me, and I show up for myself even when others don’t.
I am learning to walk in peace and contentment regardless of what is happening around me. “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” (Philippians 4:11). What I have, God gave me and I was diligent. I did the work. I stayed faithful. So, I celebrate not just the big milestones, but the small steps that no one else saw. I know what I’ve endured, and standing in this season of my life feels right.
I am no longer tolerating anything that threatens my joy or disturbs my peace. “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10). Protecting your peace is not selfish, it is stewardship. Celebrating yourself honors the journey and glorifies the God who carried you through it.
A Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your grace that sustained me when I was tired, broken, and unsure of the next step. Thank You for every closed door that redirected me and every open door that reminded me You were still in control. Help us to honor our journeys, to celebrate the work of our hands without guilt, and to walk confidently in the purpose You’ve given us.
Teach us to protect our peace, choose joy daily, and trust You in every season. May our lives and testimonies always point back to You.
In Jesus’ name we pray,
Amen