I was thinking… What’s the real difference between being rejected and being dejected? And no, not just the letter “r” versus “d.”
Rejection is external. It’s when someone or something actively turns you away; an outcome you often can’t control. Dejection, though, is internal. It’s the feeling that might follow rejection, but doesn’t have to. It’s that heavy, quiet sadness we carry when something doesn’t go the way we hoped.
Here’s what really stood out to me: rejection usually isn’t up to us, but dejection is. That was a powerful realization. I can’t always prevent rejection; it happens in jobs, friendships, opportunities; but I can decide how I respond. I can choose not to let that rejection define me or drain my spirit and in turn transform into feeling dejected.
When I feel that familiar inner voice whispering, “This is hopeless,” I remind myself that my value isn’t based on someone else’s yes or no. I am inherently worthy. Each of us is. We’re here for a reason, created with Divine purpose. Rejection might sting, but it doesn’t get to determine my direction; only I do. Dejection is an inside job and I get to control that!
