Aging Gracefully and Gratefully | Mind Over Matter

Aging, Gracefully and Gratefully | Mind Over Matter

Yesterday I met with my orthopedic surgeon to discuss the results of my recent knee MRI.  I was certain I would need surgery and I was bracing for recovery and lots of plans I wouldn't be making.  I had been getting lots of messages in my daily meditation book and in my Bible study as well that rest might be my season right now, so I complied and did a lot of reading, writing and not signing up for spin class or walking the dog.  Well, thankfully and prayerfully, the doctor informed me that surgery is not necessary at this point in time, I could get by with a cortisone shot and some physical therapy.  So, guess what I did this morning?  I walked the dog and as soon as I can take a barre class, I will and this weekend I'll be back on the bike in my favorite spin class with Rachel at the Village.  Activity and exercise gives me great pleasure as well as a more positive mindset.

But, while I stopped to let my Butler sniff I took a look downward at my upper thighs and got really sad and disgusted with the crepey, drapey skin and I started to immediately berate myself.  I am the queen of moisturizer, I couldn't put more oils and balms and lotions on my body and still my legs look similar to elephant skin.  But that thought only lasted for a moment and I stopped myself and said "wait, you have put so many amazing miles on those legs, you have earned the right to have some crepe and drape, stop it right now"  It's true, I've run a marathon, many half marathons, one through Time Square in NYC with my husband and some with my brother and my friends and created so many memories in running clubs and with like-minded active people.  I've walked from Meatpacking to Central Park, over the Brooklyn Bridge and all over Italy, France, London, Denmark and Japan.  These legs are no joke.  My devotional reading reaffirmed for me what I was already thinking…."your sense of validation is meant to come from God, not others.  God's approval of you is consistent and unchanging.  His love for you is strong and steady no matter how you feel.  His opinion of you doesn't change as you experience trials or frustrations.  By understanding his love for you, you can experience a sense of confidence that is unwavering."  Just in time, just what I needed to hear.  

The next time I start to catalog my faults-like my slightly shaking head or my odd man out front tooth- I'll turn to the Bible knowing the right message will find me. Here's to mind over matter, and to faith that quiets insecurity. Amen.