I was taught similar things. I think it was the generation. I know you're a bit older than me, but my parents would have likely been roughly the age of yours. They were 43 when I showed up on their doorstep. I was taught to be humble to a fault. It wasn't me, my effort or skill, it was God's will or luck. I was told I was a smart girl that did dumb things. I was also told no man would ever marry me because nobody wants to marry a woman smarter than himself.

I'm not sure I can tell you how to be your own best friend. I'm not totally there yet myself. I can say that my husband has helped me tremendously in that regard and truly is my best friend.

I would say that a lot of what we were taught is, well, it's bullshit, plain and simple. Even if the good things are or were gifts from above, should we not celebrate them? Should we not revel in the glory of being gifted such good fortune?

I'm not religious, far from it, very, very far, so I'll tread lightly here. However, to be your own best pal and still kinda be cool with what we were all taught, how about this, God don't make mistakes, and therefore, he gifted you your unique intelligence, personality and abilities for a reason. You are perfect and special just as you are. And if that doesn't work, well, fuck it, you're just fabulous and there comes a time when you just have to say, this is me, get outta the damn way because I rock!