My sister is the best example to me. She is amazing all around. We've had so many deep conversations about looks, weight, our bodies (pre-pregnancy and post-pregnancy), our struggles with confidence, size, shape, etc....And because of her stunning example I am now getting to the point where I generally really like my body (imperfect to the world as it may be).
Sure I weigh a few pounds more than my husband and most women don't have to worry about that. And sure my belly button will forever be an outie because of having 3 babies, and I may not fit well in my skinny jeans but I don't care. I eat way too many M&M's and now most of my workouts are me chasing my kids. But I love that!
Jess recently sent me this amazing article that I just read and oogled over. I thought I'd share it here- in case anyone else needed a boost of confidence and a little reminder that body imagine means NOTHING in the grand scheme of things.
(I will say that I do think it's important to be healthy and there are certain things that I do to maintain that but at the same time being obsessed about being healthy is unhealthy!")
Here's the link to that amazing article. This may not be totally accurate but in my opinion I think that you could do this for your scripture reading and have it count (because it's a spiritual article with lots of quotes from general authorities and scriptures).
Divinity
I love, love, love this article!
Here's a sampling of it's awesomeness (yep- awesomeness).
“When you let people’s opinions make you self-conscious you give away your power. … The key to feeling [confident] is to always listen to your inner self—[the real you.]”And in the kingdom of God, the real you is “more precious than rubies.”Every young woman is a child of destiny and every adult woman a powerful force for good." -Elder Holland
In the end, surface beauty causes us to seek approval from mankind and to get power from the wrong source. Deep beauty, however, earns the approval of of our Heavenly Father, plus self-approval and self-respect. This approval is lasting and unwavering. Our virtue gives us confidence. If you can look in the mirror each day and look into your eyes at your deep beauty, and feel the love and power that comes from living the gospel of Jesus Christ, then you are prepared to face whatever challenges may come your way with confidence. Surface beauty gets you noticed, but deep beauty makes you PRAISEWORTHY. When you are virtuous, you are worthy of respect and you are an example to others. You wear the countenance of Christ, and you can comfortably draw upon Him for power and confidence.
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This is why I want to love my body.
So that my sweet Oaklie will know that she is beautiful for who and what she is, not because of how she looks (or doesn't look).
And so that my boys will respect women and know that being a man isn't about the immoral stuff but it's about love and respect and kindness.
And so that they all know that true beauty is found in being pure and virtuous and righteous!
3 comments:
Thank you so much for posting this. That article was great. I needed to read those things, especially now in my post baby state where my body is so different than before. After 4 babies things aren't the same and I have to remember that it is ok. My body has done amazing things. I need to be an example to my three daughters through my words and by the way I live, about what matters most. Thanks Again!!
You are always so wise! I lve your post. I especially loved the one about how life changes with kids- and priorities( like working out vs reading time with the kids.) thanks for your honest and thoughtful post!!!
Thanks for posting that link. It was an uplifting read for me and makes me want to share those things with the young women in my ward and teach my daughter (and sons) even more and prepare them for what's ahead.
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