Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Finally

Are your ready for this?

I am maturing right before your very eyes.

I did something bold tonight, something that I haven't done since this little bloggy first came to be. I replaced my profile photo with an actual photo of myself.

I know. Believe me, I know.

It may seem like something completely silly and benign, and it probably is, but it's a huge step for me in feeling comfortable in this skin. I am often mistaken for having enough confidence for the greater population of Saskatchewan but in truth, I do not. That person does make an appearance in social settings and when things get quiet, but I beat myself up endlessly. And really, it's time for all that hogwash to end.

Let's be honest here. This body is not exactly what I had in mind. It is lumpy and bumpy and rolly and saggy, but it's my body and I've learned a lot about it recently. It did an amazing job of bringing four wonderful souls to this earth. It carries me through my daily life. It allows me to laugh and run and roll on the floor with my kids. It reminds me when I need to slow down and grant it rest and it allows me to do everything I want. All in all, a pretty miraculous piece of machinery.

I've been working hard recently to get it into the shape that I'd like and while the journey has been frustrating at times, I have learned to see so much more than the number on the scale. I have learned that any body that is given the chance to breathe in and out all day long is enough. Being alive and healthy is enough. Watching my kids is enough. Like everything else in life, it's the journey that's important.

As I rush each day to read the words of a most amazing sister, I am reminded of a sweet body in Mesa that is in constant battle to just stay here. To take her journey. To watch her kids. To enjoy what she has been given regardless of the packaging. Her will and determination has shown me how foolish I've been.

This body is good. It is clean and pure and of a divine nature. It affords me every opportunity and promises me my very own life. My very own journey, whatever that may be. And that, my friends, is more than enough.

23 comments:

Stacia said...

Karen-beautiful words from a beautiful person, inside and OUT!

Amy said...

That was beautiful! And so true! Maybe someday I'll follow your example!

dandee said...

What a lovely thing to read first thing in the morning. Thank you for the inspiration. You are beautiful!

Jan said...

You are beautiful inside and out. What a wonderful example you are :)
Really inspiring.

tharker said...

Karen,
I truly hope that you can see the beautiful woman (inside and out) that we all see when we look at you.

Thank you for putting things in perspective and for the words of inspiration.

You are beautiful my friend and I love you.

Ms. Kristen said...

Nice....inspiring...and a great way to start the morning! When I look in the mirror...I say.....Hey, what happened to that cute 16 year old body? But, then I remember that I am double the amount that age! I am doing the best I can, at this time!
Cheers!! To my rolly, squishy, soft, warm, busy body!

Michele said...

WOW! I'm moved. Amen sister!!!

Megan said...

Thanks, I really needed that today. When parts are creaking and my belly feels like it weight a million pounds, and shoes barely fit--I needed reminding of why we are REALLY here, in this body and be THANKFUL!
You are beautiful...

::lindsay said...

Thanks for that. You are doing great!

Anonymous said...

Attagirl!

Kris said...

This is a great post Karen. Love the new photo too. You have given me a lot to think about this morning.

Jan said...

Had to come back and read it again Karen. I loved it even more the second time. :) In fact, I heart it so much, that it hasn't left my brain. Thanks so much.

Heather said...

amen

stylist to the stars said...

Karen, I am soooo proud of you. Especially for the outlook on what is important.

Everything you said is right on the money. I am so happy to have a friend like you.

Kelly said...

I have goosebumps.

I wish everyone on the planet could read this. So many could benefit from it's message.

I love you!

hatch said...

Wow I cannot even begin to tell you how much I needed to read this. Thank-you!

Marilyn said...

Karen, and what a lovely photo it is! You are absolutely one of the most stunningly beautiful women I've ever met. Not even joking!

Sarah said...

Way to go Karen!

Annette Rose said...

Well said, Karen! I can totally relate to how you feel, as most women probably can. Its easy to pretend self confidence, not so easy to actually have it... I think you are beautiful and amazing and I am so glad I've gotten to know you!

Race you to the finish line...

Annette Rose said...

Well said, Karen! I can totally relate to how you feel, as most women probably can. Its easy to pretend self confidence, not so easy to actually have it... I think you are beautiful and amazing and I am so glad I've gotten to know you!

Race you to the finish line...

cate create said...

Can I get this post framed? Seriously, how insightful you are. I have always thought you are beautiful, and every time I interact with you I see how beautiful your heart is too.

The Neff Family said...

I can totally relate. These babies are worth all the squishyness!

Lovely Lindsay said...

mmm. thanks for this.
love, lindsay