Most of us grew up being taught that bragging is a no-no. Even when we knew we had done well, it was taboo to even acknowledge a compliment with a simple thank you unless "qualifiers" were attached.

"Pat, that was a tremendous meal, just excellent."
"Well thanks but it really wasn't much. And I think the sauteed veggies were a little overdone."

Sound familiar? Its because that out of all the "self" things that are worth relearning....self-esteem, etc.....what most of us have a difficult time achieving is a "feeling of deservedness." If its negative, we feel we got what was "coming to us." But because we're taught NOT to call undue attention to ourselves or brag, then the positives get treated like my example above. So consider this scenario: You have worked hard and prepared that meal and you KNOW its great, but the above interchange takes place BUT THEN CONTINUES-------

"Ya know Pat, you're right, they were overdone. And I think you may have used a bit too much wine in them too."

Now you're pissed aren't you? We work hard and do our best...we deserve the praise. We don't do our best, we don't. And one more thing.............Sometimes we get something out of the blue and say we're lucky and don't deserve it. Well, think of all the times you worked hard and didn't get what you should have gotten for your efforts. Consider those gifts out of the blue as life's payback for the many times you've been screwed.

Spaw