This week, my husband said things to me like...
"You are adorable."
"I love you."
"You are such a beauty."
"I love being married to you."
And it reminded me of former years, where I would find myself somewhat resisting any truth in his words.
I didn't see myself in those moments as adorable, lovable, or beautiful.
And I could find all the evidence to prove why his words weren't true.
All those years ago, I wasn't believing that I was worth being loved when I was crabby or having an "ugly" personality with him (or others) just hours before.
And sometimes, I would even push the goodness away. Completely deny it. Feeling so underserving.
But over the years, and through his persistent kindness, I've learned the power of leaning into his words.
...of considering his words and trying them on
...of receiving the grace being offered
The love.
The kindness.
The possibility that I can receive such goodness.
It's soooo powerful.
My guard comes down.
I soften into his words.
I soften into me.
This has been a mirror for me to realize just how impactful it is to try on words that are more gracious, loving, and kind to myself.
...to try on words steeped in grace
...to try on words drenched in love
...to try on words soaked in kindness
The impact of this literally helped me heal from my eating disorder.
I soften into myself...
...in acceptance of my imperfection.
"God help me see what you see in me." has been my simple prayer.
I share this because this week and every week, I walk with women who have spent decades being their own harshest critic.
And they have a hard time leaning into kindness towards themselves.
And it's a problem.
It impacts...
Their relationships
Their mental, physical, and emotional health
How they interact with others
How they fill their schedules
How they take - or don't take - care of their most foundational needs
What they do after they overeat or emotionally eat or get on a scale
How completely exhausted and run down they are
How out of alignment they feel
And ultimately not feeling at peace within themselves.
But when they open themselves to the possibility of leaning in and begin to try on words, thoughts, and actions that embody...
... kindness
... grace
... love
... patience
... curiosity
...things begin to shift.
Consider the power of your words and your tone and your posture towards yourself.
It is critical for healing the places inside yourself that are stuck in the vicious mental cycle of perfectionism, speaking so negatively, and denying really beautiful gifts in your life.
Love. Kindness. Grace.
Lean in...
Soften into it.
