Let me be your mirror, part two

(Originally published 24 March 2011)

(Don’t worry, I’ll get to the mirror part yet—I just have to work my way there!)

I left off mourning the tendency of many people—especially women—to withhold love and approval of themselves until some possible future when they just might attain a level of improvement, if not perfection, that would entitle them to earn compliments instead of criticism, when they could delight in rather than denigrate themselves. And I grieved for the 20% of Spark survey takers who could not imagine ever being satisfied with/pleased by/loving their bodies (sorry, I can’t remember the survey wording), no matter what improvements they managed to make.

I know there is a goddess in every woman waiting to be discovered, waiting to be celebrated, cherished, adorned, to be respected, and afforded the exquisite care she deserves. Are you ready to claim her? Do you remember reading The Da Vinci Code, coming across the words "sacred feminine" and feeling your heart swell as it resonated with everything that phrase evokes?

When womankind chooses to burst free of the shackles of domination and shame, we can transform the world. We owe it to our families, our communities and ourselves to unleash our power and pride, our creativity and caring. What might we accomplish? There would be no limit.

And we can begin with the bold act of loving ourselves, right now, exactly as we are. The next step is to start treating ourselves as we ought to be treated. And how do you treat a Goddess, a precious child of God? Why tenderly, respectfully, reverently. You nurture her physically and emotionally, you strengthen and protect her, you create a beautiful and pleasing environment for her, you approach her with kindness, gratitude, appreciation and awe.

If you cannot imagine seeing yourself in such a radical new way at this moment, then please, let me be your mirror. (I told you I'd get here!) See the tears in my eyes as I behold your breathtaking beauty, your power and potential, your Spark, and let me reflect that radiance, that flame back at you.

Then strive to address yourself and treat yourself with the kindness and consideration that is your due, as you would a cherished friend. For you are my Spark Friend, and you deserve no less. Indeed, you are a goddess waiting to be liberated so that you may bless the world by your example, your actions, your very being.

Blessed Be, Amanda

 

[Note that these blogs were created on Spark People, so often refer to the site, Spark teams and Spark Friends.]