Holly's Hobbies

The other day as friend and I were chatting back and forth (texting), She got down on herself as I often do. She made an offhanded comment about her beauty, and all the extra things on her body that didn't used to be there. I have self esteem issues and in doing this contest I hope to just learn to love myself, accept the parts of me I will never change. How to do that? I have no clue. I am on a journey! However, I texted this to her, and I really meant it. I think it applies to us all!!

"We all have stretch marks, some surgery scars, and skin that will never be the same..I think that getting to the point where we realize that all of those things are always going to be a part of us, a part of the story we tell on having babies, health problems and putting others first, part of our life's journey. And more importantly, we need to figure out how to love ourselves because of and in spite of them. That, that would be the best reward I could think of...We are all beautiful, and we all have battle scars. Our husbands love us regardless of how "imperfect" we think our bodies are, we should be able to as well!!!"

I really do hope that we can all learn that beauty does not define who we are, perfection in these bodies is NEVER going to happen and to constantly be seeking it at all cost is irresponsible and the damage could be irreversible. I am so glad to be on this "journey" With all of you. No matter what we accomplish along the way to losing weight, I really hope we can all gain a respect and love for our bodies, for the women we are not only on the outside, but the inside..