It's Ok: A simple affirmation of Grace

Affirmations are an effective and tangible way to rewire your inner dialogue. Affirmations can be phrases, lyrics, mantras or prayers that you've said to yourself in times of need. What's more important is that you are repeating a healthy statement that gives you some grounding and insight in the moment. I like to look at affirmations as what I need to be said to myself in those moments.

As of recently I've been working on my wants and needs. The act of recognizing these desires makes the moments they show up or don't, so clear. That insight is magical but also challenging because I start to worry I may lose the things I do receive. There are unhealed parts of me that "waits for the other shoe to drop". I automatically go in survival mode and try to thwart this anxious fear by problem solving to "prevent" a negative future. And although problem solving is helpful it can also be futile; in my case it draws from enjoying the present moment and sends me down the worry train of "what ifs".

In those moments I've practiced saying "its ok". I don't want to shame myself for the angst I feel. I have been through some experiences that rightfully caused me to combat worry with problem solving. I acknowledge the me that is still healing and how those reactions/behaviors no longer serve the person I am today. Yet and still they did at some point in time, and that I am learning to be grateful and patient with.

I simply repeat "its ok". That simple phrase feels like a hug in those moments, like my grandmother rubbing my belly when I was sick as a kid. Her energy in all its love and simplicity so powerful and calming. It's ok was at first, an unconscious phrase I noticed I was repeating. I then made it a conscious practice.

It's ok offers me a moment of nonjudgemental reprieve. I can free myself from all the work of my own judgement and criticism. I can free myself from the constant banter of trying to problem solve and "fix" my "issues". It gives a moment of acknowledgement and acceptance, the ultimate grace.

I encourage everyone to find affirmations, phrases hidden in our everyday self talk. That little voice offering you peace. Find those affirmations, repeat them, hold on to them, use them and the healthy ones will give you a feeling of peace.

Its ok is my golden phrase. Its okay is my moment of peace. Its okay is my hug.

Jaminah B.