Be Gentle With Yourself

Yes...that IS fresh snow on the window sill today, on the first day of Spring!  I have included this beautiful Herkimer Diamond in the matrix, in the photo of your card today, because Herkimer Diamonds are wonderful at 'bringing in the Light'.  Here in south/central Alberta, we have been enjoying such lovely, Spring-like weather these past couple of weeks, and to have this winter-like weather occurring today of all days feels slightly insulting, quite frankly!  
I chose the 'Archangel Michael' deck, authored by Doreen Virtue for your daily reading because Archangel Michael is the Archangel of protection, courage and strength, as well as offering us guidance through life's changes.  Here we are today, in the midst of the change of seasons which is not presenting as we may have hoped, after what has been a very long winter!  Interesting how it is the 'Be Gentle With Yourself' card that flew out of the deck! Doreen's message for this card is:
"MY PRAYER:  Archangel Michael, please guide me in treating myself with gentle, nurturing love in everything I think, speak and do.  Help me know that I deserve this compassion.  I release any feelings of guilt to you so that I may experience lasting inner peace."

My message for you today is this:
Archangel Michael's name means "He who is like God."  Many experience his aura as royal purple in colour.  A crystal said to align well with his energy is Sugilite.  
Archangel Michael is presenting for us today to remind us that you can be strong and gentle at the same time---to be gentle does not imply weakness, or lack of strength.  Quite the opposite!  True strength comes from a place of compassion, and this includes compassion for yourself.  Why is it that we often times express compassion toward others more readily than we do toward ourselves?  We can be our own worst critics, and can sometimes feel 'guilty' when we indulge in self-care and self-love.  Archangel Michael reminds you today that it is only when you take loving care of yourself that you can fully share your love with others.  
We are coming out of some powerful cosmic energies recently and it is not only OK to indulge in self care, but it is necessary to show yourself compassion in this way!  
Ask Archangel Michael to be with you and assist you to recognize that such indulgence is warranted and necessary.  Be gentle with yourself, as you would advise a much-loved friend to be with him/herself.  Love yourself as you so readily share that love with others...  
Perhaps we are to utilize this 'first day of Spring' winter storm that we are currently experiencing in south/central Alberta, as an indication that we need to 'cocoon' and care for ourselves today.  That message applies, no matter where you are in the world as you read this...take care of YOU...take time today to rejuvenate yourself and your Spirit in whatever way feels right to you.  Honour yourself in this way and you are then able to share the best of yourself with others!
Blessed be...