The Best Way to Love Your Body

For some time I have been suffering health issues. Minor things, but things I knew were not the norm for me and I thought could use some attention, so I sought medical treatment. I left the doctor feeling more discouraged than I did when I walked in the door. Have you ever faced the struggle of having to justify yourself to someone? Not just once, but over and over, until all you begin to feel is sheer exhaustion? That is how I felt when I left.  Most of my life I have been criticized for my size. I am an exceptionally small person and doctors grill me on this. The ironic fact is, I never suffer from body image until others point out the negative things about my body. I don't, on a general basis, look at myself in the mirror and feel disgusted by what I see. Do I like being my size? Not really. Pants are a joke to shop for! I get tired of having to convince doctors there's nothing wrong with me, it's hereditary — here wanna see a picture of my parents and my brothers? I dwelled on this for some time. I prayed, asking the Lord to allow me to not be offended, but to take my doctors advice with a grain of salt. I was challenged a couple days ago when a woman in the drug store made a snide remark about my size, but then quickly backtracked and apologized. Never have I had anyone apologize. More prayer.  And then God showed me the verse above, reminding me that my body is not my own, it has been bought with a price, and that it is not for me to worry about who my body impresses as long as it glorify's the Lord. I need not worry about measuring up to any statistics or standards, because they are nothing more than an average for the population. My God is not average and does create "average" things. He does not create people to be average, either, as we are created in His image, the ultimate Holy of Holies! In that, my body was made perfect. It is simply my duty to maintain the health and integrity of it during my temporary stay in this little shell. So that, sweet friends, is my Fitness Plan: To Love my Body As Unto the Lord. There is no greater way!
XO, Steph

You Are Loved Inspiration & FREE Download

I felt today I needed to take a moment and share a little love. To remind each and every one of you who may be reading this that you are unequivocally loved. If you are new here, welcome. What a blessing it is to have you! If you are a return reader, thank you. Another blessing in disguise!

Two years ago I thought so little of myself. I remember one day, while Logan was waiting patiently for me to come around, I said to my mother, "For whatever reason, this guy is interested in me." I said it numerous times in various ways before my mom finally said, "Will you stop saying that? There are a lot of reasons for anyone to be interested in you." I verbally abused myself, without even realizing it. My divorce nearly crippled me. I drowned in my depression, allowing it to stifle every breath I dared try to take.

I know now I am better than that, and I want to you to know you are too! So today, stand up, remind yourself of your beauty, for you are created in God's image, and what is more precious and beautiful than that? You are loved by many. Even if there is one naysayer, they are but one of billions. Don't let them break your spirit. Give them something to admire!

Feel free to DOWNLOAD the quote above, frame it in your home as a reminder for yourself each morning. Share it on Pinterest or email it to a friend or loved one who may need to hear this reminder today. No matter what the trial plaguing you, remember you are not alone, you are strong and courageous.

So many hugs and love today!
Steph