Our Perspective of Ourselves

Over the last 6 weeks or so I've met many incredible people. But as the time comes to an end and some of us will split ways, but one person stands out to me. I don't believe in coincidences but believe that God brings certain people in our life to teach you something valuable. This has happened in my journey over the past 6 weeks.

I share often about my recovery journey and how its still a struggle at times. Its like any addiction, its there and it knows how to knock you down. There are definite times where it's easy and I'm content. And other times where I am holding on by one thread. During any of these times, I truly have to trust God to bring peace into these areas. Also having constant support from family and friends.

Back to the person who stands out from the past 6 weeks. We have become relatively close over the past month. She's also quiet a bit younger than myself but yet so CONFIDENT!! I had not mentioned any of my struggles to my friend but watched her. She enjoyed food, didn't have crazy anxiety at meals, she even ate DESSERTS...This is almost a NO NO in my life. Marissa is even a VEGETARIAN!!! But healthy. She lives an example of someone I truly want to become.

Watching Marissa has not only been inspiring but intriguing in how comfortable she is in her own skin. She doesn't find her identity in what size her jeans are, or the size of her shirts. Marissa's confidence radiates a mile away. She was eating a cookie today and I made a comment of "I took a bite but had to throw it away." She responds to me with "If it makes you happy, don't worry about the calories or being fat." I was like such truth in that. Why not enjoy a cookie or two or five.

And let me tell you my friend is BEAUTIFUL!!! She's perfect because she is comfortable in her own skin. Marissa is not big at all. She's actually tiny. But she doesn't hold back on what she eats. Her life isn't controlled by what comes next with the meal. She embraces it.

Couldn't we ALL learn from my friend with embracing ourselves and how God made each of us! I will forever be thankful for the influence she has had on my life. Its beautiful knowing that you can live comfortable in your own skin. I know that I am different because of her friendship and example that she lives.

Marissa sent this to me today. It made me smile when I saw this. Let go of the labels and be whoever you want to be!!!! Once we learn to accept ourselves, others will accept us also.