But that's not end of story. Our mindful curiosity can help us find common ground. In same way, others we see as similar to us become more fascinating as we get to know them better and recognize their unique qualities.

In other words, we need to see both differences AND similarities in order to learn most and increase our awareness of others as well as gain a greater understanding of ourselves. The more we see ourselves as mindful, curious people with an interest in others, more likely we are to continue to engage in world around us with wonder and affection.

This is true for art as well as people. It has been shown that we like art or music that we have been instructed to notice. Of two people shown same unfamiliar piece of artwork, one instructed to notice three interesting aspects of piece is far more likely to report later that they like it.

I love beauty and power of this notion.

If all it takes to develop greater affection for a person, place or thing is simply being instructed to find interesting aspects, then we need to start doing exactly that. By strengthening our mindful/curious quotient, we can ensure our continued development as kind, compassionate, generous and happy individuals.

How curiously simple--and stunningly significant.

How then, do we begin to accept and love ourselves? First, we take stock. Not of what is wrong with us. What we didn’t do, or we should have done, but what we did do. We use compassion and look at all our positive traits and accomplishments. The key word here is compassion. To honestly value ourselves as human beings; not be drawn into negative thoughts and tapes that run through our minds from past. It’s amazing how many positive things you come up with if you can be honest and compassionate with yourself. It isn’t putting a good face on things. If it’s just for one time in your life to not judge yourself harshly but be honest and good to yourself. If you have to start with just one good thing then start with that and add to it day by day. You will find that list is actually a long one because…face it you’re a good person. Yes, you have made some mistakes you have some shortcomings… relax, your human; you can work on them. One by one not just become so overwhelmed that you just give up. It’s ok to be human, and make mistakes. Mistakes are just life’s way of helping us to learn. Not, a weapon to beat ourselves up with. Next time you look in to mirror; try it. Think of something good about yourself, then think of something you’ve accomplished; keep doing that until you realize what a valuable and lovable person you are. What if you can only think of one thing a day? Take it one day at a time but keep doing it. What do you have to lose? You have so much to gain. Kay L. Schlagel