I just returned from Sunday morning worship and the first opportunity to let others see my changing body. Standing in the narthex, greeting fellow believers, I found myself doing a lot of self-talk. As their eyes travelled down my body and back up again, I had to work hard to recognize that "observing" change is not the same as "judging" it.
I wonder how many times the jump from observation to judgment stops the process of change? It is certainly a human response to put up defenses when we fear attack - even the subtleties of the quick once-over. Yet I am reminded of Eleanor Roosevelt's famous quote, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." And I suspect no one can make you feel judged... or stupid... or ugly.... or anything else, without your consent!
So in this Holy Week, as I return to work and encounter more and more of my brothers and sisters, I will not give consent. Because I will recognize the difference between observations and judgments.
PS... Puppy is SO happy and so tired right now, after accompanying me on a long (45 minute) uphill and down hill walk!
Hi Donna,
ReplyDeleteToni forwarded me your blog information. It sounds like you have had WLS. I had the lap band surgery on 2/12/10. I also have a blog and I encourage you to check it out:http://amandakiska.blogspot.com/
I have discovered an AMAZING group of bloggers who have had similar surgeries (and some who haven't), and are at various stages in their journies to overcome their addiction to disordered eating habits. If you decide to follow my blog, you will be the first person I know in "real life" to follow my blog.
I wish you peace and joy! Love, Amanda Wooldridge