Unconditional Self-Love

I recently spent time at a coffee shop for the first time since the start of the pandemic.

It was nice being able to sit by the window, sip from a large mug of latte, people-watch, and write in my spiral-bound notebook.

I tried to savour my time there, to not rush to get to a personal writing task.

When I got home, while removing my shoes and coat, I reflected on my having completed my writing task and for treating myself to a nice time alone at the coffee shop. I said to myself, “I’m proud of you.”

Right after I said those words, though, I wondered When have I felt proud of myself for doing nothing at all? Why did I need to DO something before sending loving words to myself?

That is not unconditional love.

Am I not worthy of love for simply being? For existing?