If there is anyone in my immediate family that could have been labelled the nerd growing up it was me. I wore the highest rise turtle neck, indulged in poem writing, doing well in school and absolutely loved to read. I can't however say the same for my older self, who finds most of her comfort reads in hair/fashion/beauty blogs, youtube and my iphone bible app!
Well, just a few weeks ago I challenged myself to read more and made my first book purchase as part of this new reading lifestyle I intend on making permanent. I was looking for something inspirational or motivational that I could apply to my life but also to the life of five beautiful young ladies I mentor. So I started with 'Unapologetically You: Reflections on Life and the Human Experience' by Dr steve Maraboli. A good read? You bet! But not for the reasons you may think!
I've come to learn as a mentor that it's so easy to encourage and motivate others with lines and parables about happiness, joy, overcoming hard times and being the best you can be, but before you do this it's so important to deal with yourself first, and Lord knows I had a whole lot of dealing to do, especially on the topic of my weight and how I perceive and embrace myself.
Just like almost every female on the planet I've had my fair share of weight issues, you'll be pleased to know it has never been an option to lose weight as I think you'd agree there would be nothing left of me! But the jungles and rivers I've jumped through and over in hopes of throwing some extra thickness unto my thighs has been no joke! Peakmilk, supermalt challenge, nourishment, dollops of peanut butter in every smoothie etc. Whilst it's considered a blessing to be able to eat all of the junk and food in the world and not gain a gram, it most certainly hasn't always felt that way. I've always wanted to be just a tad bit thicker.
Well, the time has come to put all of that to one side and embrace more, love more and appreciate the way I was created just that bit more… and so should you!
“There is nothing more rare, nor more beautiful, than a woman being unapologetically herself; comfortable in her perfect imperfection. To me, that is the true essence of beauty.”
Lovely post!
ReplyDeleteI love this part especially...
"it's so easy to encourage and motivate others with lines and parables about happiness, joy, overcoming hard times and being the best you can be, but before you do this it's so important to deal with yourself first"
www.more-than-one-love.blogspot.co.uk
I hear you. I've always wanted to be just a tad bit thicker... on my hips!
ReplyDelete:)
Great post! It's funny, too, because I used to try to do everything possible I could to gain weight to no avail. I guess it's one of those the "grass is always greener..." situations. :)
ReplyDeleteGreat post Fiona! You look lovely x
ReplyDeleteI love this post. I have been diligently working on adoring my authentic self. I am coming into my own finally letting go of what others say and needing external validation to feel happy. Like you I have began to read books a little more, get back to all the things that I truly love. I was quite a nerd myself. I enjoy the mental sabbatical of a good book! Long comment I know. Unapologetically me! I receive that!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Fiona.
ReplyDeleteI've only been reading for 5 minutes and I am already in love with your blog.
You have a beautiful spirit sis. I can totally relate to this post. It has taken me years to accept myself for who I am, inside and out and now, thanks to God who has been my rock, I am on that road of acceptance.
And Lord knows this line is my reality : "it's so easy to encourage and motivate others with lines and parables about happiness, joy, overcoming hard times and being the best you can be, but before you do this it's so important to deal with yourself first".
So excited to follow your adventures sis :)
May God bless you richly.
theofficialDATFUNKYFRO
Just realized I forgot to say you are absolutely BEAUTIFUL!
ReplyDeletetheofficialDATFUNKYFRO