Sunday, June 13, 2010

Perspective

A few weeks ago Dustin and the kids were desperate for a trip to the river. I was feeling not-so-hot, so I went but just rested in the shade of a nearby tree. However, from my vintage point I could see most of the people coming, going and playing.

I was humbled. Greatly. San Antonio has very strong family values (influenced by a 60% Hispanic population). Plus, they take full advantage of their cultural and natural destinations. This means that a society who appreciates the fuller figure is consistently flooding the water destinations. Of which there are many.

I was raised like a true white girl. I am ashamed of my cellulite, to the point of being willing to forgo amazing adventures with my family. I will cover my hips and thighs with shorts, skirts and towels all in the name of vanity. But these ladies? These ladies who are (by white girl definition) fat, they just have fun. Sure, they choose swimwear that is suitable for their stature but otherwise, THEY DON'T CARE.

Wow.

I sat there watching them enjoy their families, food and nature and I was humbled. How much have I been missing in life because I thought everyone was looking at me? How often will my husband and children have to tell me I am beautiful and perfect to them, before I believe them? How long do I have to wait to have fun, too?

So, today we went to the same river. I wore just my tankini. I played with my family and had some pretty awesome adventures. And I stopped worrying about my butt. Finally.

3 comments:

  1. Everyone cares - I promise. But everyone out there frolicking has made that same choice: to believe that they are beautiful, that they are loved, and that they have no reason to be ashamed of how they were made. Keep it up!

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  2. you go girl! you're beautiful! i bet your family loved having you out there as much as you enjoyed being there :)

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  3. We love your butt.

    I am glad you and the fam had a good time, and listen to that wise, wise first commenter. She really knows her stuff. :)

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You have my undivided attention.