I’ve now started this musing three different times. For some reason, landing on the right words to bring the idea forward has been a challenge to grasp and run with.

Perhaps I’ll try writing it from the end and see what happens.

The bottom line? 

It doesn’t matter what my body looks like.

What matters is what it can DO.

As long as I’m focused on what isn’t, I fail to see what it IS.

My body is strong. I can move. Walk. Jump. Run.

I’m able to cook food and nourish myself. I can be creative and nurturing to myself and the people around me. I can drive and run errands. I can be active and restful. My breathing is full and deep and my heart pumps that oxygen and blood throughout my body to support living life and the experiences it brings.

I can see, hear, smell, feel and taste. Multiple senses come in to heighten experiences and help me imprint them into my memory. Gah!!! I can remember. How to walk and talk and ride a bike. People’s names and faces which means I can create friendships and relationships and experiences.

I can hold my grandchildren and soothe a crying baby. My arms can hold someone as they release the stress and emotions flowing through, my presence can help create healing.

When someone needs help,

 I can.

When I look at all of the things I can do, what I look like doesn’t seem to matter. 

So what if my belly is a little poochy or I have an adult blemish here and there? Who cares if I’m not a certain size or weight? Does it matter if I can’t run 5 miles or if my flexibility is lacking? None of it blocks my ability to be compassionate and loving.

Yes. I need to be healthy. It’s imperative to listen to my body and give it what it needs. If I get over a certain weight my back hurts and I can’t move as easily without getting winded. If I eat things my body can’t digest I experience discomfort and misery for a time. If I push too hard, far, fast, or long, I will deal with the fact that my ability to do so is diminished because of my choices.

I have to take care of my body so it can continue to DO.

And while I’ll continue to tune into my needs, I plan to keep my focus on my abilities instead of my shortcomings.

Let’s see where seeking out the “I can, I am able” takes us instead of the “I can’t, I’m not.”

Journal Prompts

1. What first comes to mind when you think about the things you’re able to do?
2. Is there an ability you would like to improve?
3. How might changing your perspective in this area help in other parts of your life?