I think it was in my elementary years that I heard that I shouldn't listen to this song for the reason that it was blasphemous since it promoted vanity (I think) and it is God's love that is the greatest. I believe the lines: The greatest love of all
Is easy to achieve
Learning to love yourself -
It is the greatest love of all
...were found offensive by some of the more religious teachers/officials of the school/church (can't recall). I now believe that that had a huge impact on me. Subconsciously I was impressed with the idea that it was bad to love one's self. It was only during the recent years, when I started searching for a reason for my unhappiness, that I able to identify the cause - I didn't love myself - insecurity, poor self esteem; name it, I had it.
I hate (yes, hate) the person/s who made that impression on me as a kid (good thing I don't know who they are). Everyday I struggle to see myself as other's do. If only they heard the other parts of the song:
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride to make it easier
IF ONLY they didn't pass judgement on that song, I could say:
I decided long ago never to walk in anyone's shadow
If I fail, if I succeed at least I'll live as I believe
No matter what they take from me,
they can't take away my dignity
Unfortunately, I still can't right now.
