What you see, on the surface, is not always in harmony with what lies within. Sometimes perception and truth are at opposite ends of the spectrum. Like the playground teeter totter that tips up and down, we teeter and we totter between our judgements and reality.
Women are judgy by nature. We see each other as competition. It seems so silly, but it happens every day in my life, and in yours too I would bet. Misconceptions based on a hunch. Drawn conclusions on a whim.
What if we saw people’s deepest fears instead of the brave face they put on?
What if instead of the beautiful exterior we work hard to perfect, our inner core was what attracted people to us?
And what if the scars we have covered were instead proudly pinned as a badge of honor for all to see?
What then?
Insecurities arise. I feel like my fears represent weakness, my core is conflicted, and my scars bear witness to the pain I have endured. Shame surfaces.
Why would we want anyone to see what we really look like inside? The tender under belly of vulnerability is risky. And quite frankly, me without a little skillfully applied make-up is just plain scary!
“…The Lord sees not as man sees. Man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
~ 1 Samuel 16:7
I have earned my wrinkles. We have earned our scars. And when we peel back the layers meant to defend our hearts, I believe we will find, that underneath it all, we are really not so different.
Whoever you are…
Whatever you’ve overcome…
However you are hiding it…
Let them see.
Today’s writing was inspired by the prompted topic “SEE” from Lisa Jo Baker’s Five Minute Friday.
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Tris Bendickson 