OF ALL THE chapters for this book, this one was the most difficult to write. When I talked with friends and acquaintances about self-love I was surprised to see how many of us feel troubled by the notion, as though the very idea implies too much narcissism or selfishness. We all need to rid ourselves of misguided notions about self-love. We need to stop fearfully equating it with self-centeredness and selfishness. (bell hooks, All About Love)

… self love has been a key component of my trans-feminine shift… i love my feminine self… not selfish or self-centered, but a coming home to myself…