My husband and I have taken to working out in our living rooms at 5.30am, four times a week as part of our 90 day investment in our health and fitness. A large mirror hangs right by our chosen workout spot. I’ve noticed that I spend most of my time sneaking disapproving, disappointed glances at the way my tummy wobbles and wiggles when I work out. When I mentioned this to my husband, he said I should focus on three things I liked about myself instead. I was sobered to realise that I couldn’t think of anything in response. Not one thing.
This got me thinking, why am I so quick to focus on the negative when I look in the mirror? And as I pondered and weighed this all up, the words below tumbled out of my head and onto a page.
I’m not in the habit of writing in rhymes. But in the spirit of embracing all of me, and not being overly critical, I thought I would share the words as they came to me. To all the mothers out there who also wrestle with the mirror – this is for you.
The Mirror and Me
I look in the mirror, and what do I see?⠀
Everything that I think needs fixing in me.⠀
My tummy’s too wobbly, my figure not firm.⠀
My bottom too bumpy, my posture a-squirm.⠀
⠀
But then I remember my worth is not tied⠀
To the mirror’s reflection, or the size of my thighs.⠀
I remember my tummy housed three gorgeous babes.⠀
And my body, though quirky, was wonderfully made. ⠀
I remember my body birthed LIFE, babies nurtured.⠀
And because of my body, three girls have a future.⠀
⠀
So when I look in the mirror I try to recall⠀
My blessings and full cup, and give thanks for them all.⠀
“You are beautiful”, I mouth. “Intentionally made.”⠀
And though my life is not perfect there is nought I would trade.⠀
⠀
Because my lot is a gift. My legacy eternal.⠀
And my scars great reminders of battles won, hurdles hurdled.⠀
And it’s my heart, not my body that truly defines me.⠀
And my heart is a strong one. It feels deeply, loves wildly.⠀
I am a mother, a daughter. A friend, and a wife.⠀
I’m a safe place, a nurturer. A conquerer, full of life.⠀
So when I look in the mirror, I’m starting to grin.⠀
Because I am learning to love this new skin I am in.⠀
⠀
Charm is deceptive, and beauty will fade;⠀
but a woman who fears God is one to be praised.⠀
Proverbs 31⠀
If you liked this you might also enjoy:
- Please don’t ask me if I’m pregnant
- Scarred by love. Lessons my mummy tummy taught me
- Body Image and Baby Jesus
Barb says
Amen!
Mrs_Hills says
Thank you!
Catherine Thomson says
I love this poem! Especially how you add proverbs 31 as a rhyming couplet at the end. This is such an encouraging read – thank you for the reminder that we are wonderfully made by our creator.
Mrs_Hills says
Thank you so much for the encouragement Catherine!