Chapter 35: A Reflection on Love, Self-Worth, and Growth

I guess it's true what they say—as you get older, you start to realize that it’s the smaller things in life that matter. Turning 35 was an incredibly emotional experience for me. The 'happy birthdays' weren’t just empty words; they felt like genuine 'thinking of you' moments that warmed my heart.

One thing stood out to me this year that I hadn’t recognized before: I felt deeply loved. More than ever, I felt valued, and if I dig deeper, it’s because I now value and love myself. People are a reflection of you, and this birthday showed me just how much I’ve grown in my healing journey.

If there’s one takeaway from this experience, it’s this: how you treat yourself shows up in the way others treat you. While you’re busy doubting yourself, the people around you see the greatness within you. Turning 35 reminded me that self-love isn’t just a concept—it’s a mirror that reflects in the way others interact with you.

As part of my journey, I wrote an e-book on how fitness influenced my self-confidence. If you’d like to gift me something for my birthday, feel free to purchase the e-book. I hope you enjoy it and that it helps you as much as it has helped me on my journey.

Thank you for reading this blog. Thank you for being here. Thank you for all the love and support. I look forward to continuing this journey, guided by God and surrounded by my loved ones.

XOXO, Desiree