Lately, as I scroll through Facebook looking at posts, I’m seeing this trend to post positive, inspirational quotes that express how lucky we are and how blessed we should feel to be healthy and alive. Although I love these quotes and find they can be inspirational, I also feel like sometimes people project a fake image of positivity to the world. There are days when I just don’t feel inspirational and want to be crabby and selfish. There are days I’m mad. Not at anyone in particular, but just mad about not having enough time to do the things I want to do. Other days I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for all I have and the amazing gifts in my life. The older I get, the more I realize I'm human and it’s okay to feel the full range of emotions. It's okay to be a little crabby and selfish. My point is, don’t feel bad for not always thinking positive thoughts. Don’t be afraid to be human and show your many faces to those around you. Let them see the perfect, positive you along with the you who needs a shower and hasn’t combed your hair in two days. What we all need is the courage to show our imperfections to the world and be okay with not being perfect. Both my sister Danna and I rummaged through our photos and found pictures of ourselves where we don’t have makeup on and are far from perfect, but we feel strong and empowered because we are showing our authentic selves.
Danna feels empowered because on this trip she was able to accomplish something she never would have done in her younger years. In the beginning she was very apprehensive and nervous about being in such a remote place. She felt helpless and vulnerable. However, after listening to nature and realizing she had the courage to let go of needing to be in control, she was able to find her spirit.
In this picture I feel empowered because I have overcome some major confidence hurdles to build an amazing bond with my horse, Hope. When she first came to me, she had trust issues and wouldn’t come to me in the field or even allow me to be near her face. I also had trust issues and didn’t like the feeling of knowing she could throw me at any time. It has taken almost two years, but we built a relationship of trust and mutual respect. She now allows me to kiss her, lunge her with no lunge line, and she runs up to see me in the field. Through this process I have learned it is okay to be scared to do something, but it’s not okay to let fear keep you from living.
Your challenge this week is to find an “imperfect picture” and post it. Tell all your “friends” on Facebook, or whatever social media you use, why you feel empowered by your imperfection. Embrace your authentic self!