In reading Gurumayi’s teaching about the flower “as it breathes love into itself,” I realized that whenever I am able to love myself, it becomes a sublime experience. At such times, any unwanted thoughts or emotions just no longer have a detrimental grip on me.
 
Whenever I have had challenges with focusing on a chant or during meditation or any of my daily activities, I just have to remember the phrase “Love yourself,” and that enables me to become peaceful and loving toward myself—and toward others.