Let love rule

I feel a long post coming on.

There are a few things I wanted to write down so that I wouldn't forget them. Haven't you heard? I'm ageing, I'm now 27 and the memory is slowing down. No honestly, I've always had a terrible memory, especially when it comes to remembering names or replying to text messages. Apologising in advance.

I've been reading this beautiful blog from a woman who has gone through a massive trial in her life. You can read about her story here. Her name is Stephanie and her outlook on life continues to inspire me. In fact, her blog was one of those that brought on the idea of creating this space. I appreciate it so much when people share a piece of themselves and heal us in the process. 

Stephanie's story freed me from being self conscious about the burn scar on my neck. This is a scar that has marked my appearance since infancy. Even though I've heard the story of the accident, I can't remember the details and for the first time in my life, it truly doesn't matter. That accident no longer occupies a heavy place of regret. As a teenager I sought ways to conceal my mark, wanting to look ordinary and not so different. It became even harder whenever a boy wouldn't like me back, because I'd always take it back to the scar, thinking that if only I were a pretty girl... Well, that was a long time ago and now there's a boy and he likes me plenty. 

This is not really about being liked by someone else, it's about liking myself. 

And now as a mother it is my job to teach baby to have substance, to be kind, gracious and full of charity. And to not base his self worth on the reflection in the mirror. 

It is said that we are more than our appearances. We are more than our skin tone. More than what society deems attractive or unattractive. And I am more than this scar. I am grateful for the trial that it brought to my teenage years and how it has forced me to not rely on looks but instead to focus on that which matters most. I am especially grateful to those who treat others with dignity no matter the appearance. After all, we're sharing the same earth, navigating life the best way we know how. 

Let love, not judgement, be the leader of your thoughts.

Peace