Love Life, Love Yourself, and Ignore Dirt

I just came to the realization today that I am not going to listen to anyone's dirt-talk anymore. When I say dirt-talk, I mean the kind of words that can stab you, cheat you, make you feel worthless, your-opinion-doesn't-matter kind of dirt. I call it dirt because that's exactly what it is -- dirt from others.          

Life is too short to be constantly worried about gossip. I hate to admit it, but I used to read into this dirt more than I should have. I became sick of toying with the notion that friends may have been talking behind my back, even if it was within earshot or clearly within my vision on the computer. Childish, I know. But even in my thirties, it's a horrible feeling to even remotely feel like someone might dislike me. Ever since I can remember, I struggled with pleasing everyone. Such worry has recently occurred yet again, and has made me question where I stand in this life.

1.) Is this going to change my life?

2.) Do I ever really see this person?

3.) Do I have to answer to them?

4.) Do I really care about this person's opinion to begin with?

All questions pointed to a big and obvious NO. Only I can change my life. I see myself every day, thus knowing how to trust in myself and do everything in a positive light. I know now that the opinions of others just vitally and simply do not matter. Love life, love myself, and ignore dirt is my new motto. Perhaps being a mother has gifted me such a pleasantry in realizing this "awakening". Only love and support will dance with me as long as I don't let anyone's dirt in. The only person I have to answer to is me. What an enthralling epiphany!

Ain't nothing gonna break my stride
Nobody's gonna slow me down
Oh no, I've got to keep on moving

~ Men at Work