Have you ever heard the saying, "Thank God I don't look like what I've been through"?
It's a thought-provoking phrase that kept me up last night, pondering the visual representation of my life's journey. If our physical appearance reflected the plethora of experiences, places, thoughts, and relationships that have hurt or damaged us, what would we look like?
According to Hopkins Medicine, scars are the body's natural way of healing and replacing lost or damaged skin. They are evidence of the healing process taking place within us.
But healing isn't always pretty; it involves scabs forming to protect and promote the restoration process.
I must admit, I have scars—many of them unseen. They are like battle wounds, each in various stages of healing.
Some scars are self-inflicted, a result of my own actions.
Others were caused by the actions of others, and some were simply the aftermath of life's challenges.
If I appeared as my scars, I would be covered in reminders of pain and struggle.
I used to despise my scars, feeling ashamed and trying to conceal them from the world. What would people think if they saw my scars? How would it affect their perception of me? Those thoughts consumed me, urging me to hide my healing process.
However, my mom used to tell me something when I would scrape my knee or elbow as a child—sometimes, you need to take off the bandaid and let it breathe.
(I'm an 80's baby, so if this isn't standard practice anymore, well, argue with your mama.)
Don't let shame or others' perceptions smother your healing. Let it breathe!
This act of "breathing" can be as simple as addressing your scars, sharing your experiences with someone you trust, seeking encouragement in your journey towards recovery. It's about embracing the fact that your scars signify that you have lived through injury, that you have survived. Don't let the fear of further scars stop you from living your life to the fullest.
Scars happen, but they don't diminish our value. In fact, I believe they can add value.
Have you ever heard of the art of kintsugi? It's a Japanese practice of repairing broken pottery with gold, silver, or platinum, creating a beautiful illustration of beauty emerging from brokenness. It demonstrates how the process of restoration can enhance the value of what is repaired.
Now, imagine how this perspective could change your life experience.
What if you embraced your scars, both physical and emotional, as a testament to your resilience and strength?
How would it feel to find beauty in your own brokenness?
What lessons have you learned from your healing journey that could inspire and uplift others?
Embracing scars and finding beauty in brokenness can transform your life. It allows you to appreciate your imperfections and acknowledge the strength and wisdom you have gained through overcoming adversity. It encourages you to view the process of healing and growth as an integral part of your identity, something to be celebrated rather than hidden.
So, take a moment to reflect on your scars and the stories they tell. Embrace them, for they are a testimony to your ability to heal and thrive. Remember that your scars add value, just like the golden seams of kintsugi.
Let your healing process breathe and inspire others along the way.
Food for thought:
1. How do you currently view your scars, both physical and emotional? Are you ashamed of them or do you see them as a testament to your resilience?
2. Have you ever tried to hide your scars or the healing process from others? How has that affected your self-perception and interactions with people?
3. Reflect on a specific scar, either self-inflicted or caused by others, and consider what you have learned or gained from that experience. How has it shaped you as a person?
4. Can you recall a time when you felt judged or feared judgment because of your scars or past experiences? How did that impact your sense of self-worth and confidence?
5. What would it mean for you to "let your scars breathe"? How can you create a safe space for healing and self-acceptance?
6. Take a moment to contemplate the concept of kintsugi and its symbolism of beauty coming from brokenness. How might embracing this perspective change the way you view your own journey of healing and restoration?
7. Consider the idea that scars add value. How can you apply this mindset to your own life and find appreciation for the strength and wisdom you have gained through overcoming adversity?
8. Are there any lingering scars, emotional or physical, that you have yet to address or fully heal from? How might seeking support, whether through therapy, talking to a trusted friend, or other means, aid in your healing process?
9. Imagine embracing your scars and sharing your healing journey with others. How might your experiences inspire and uplift those who are going through similar challenges?
10. Reflect on the power of self-compassion and self-acceptance. How can you extend kindness and understanding to yourself as you navigate the healing process?
Comments