Beauty is everywhere…
Beauty comes from within our hearts and minds as easily as it shines off of the gloss of our lips or in the shake of our hips. It’s in the moss clinging to stone, and the rotting of a century-old tree, so beauty must be found within each layer of me.
— Kimberly Mullen
….
As I rise from my bed, contemplative thoughts fill my mind about manifesting a life brimming with love, family, friends, adventure, health, creativity, spirituality, and success. As I slip into my running attire, the fabric's gentle glide over my arms, legs, stomach, and thighs becomes a tactile reminder of the journey each etching represents, prompting a surge of gratitude for the strength and clarity acquired along the way.
A quick glance in the mirror leads to a moment of self-care, applying mascara and pondering the delicate lines forming at the corners of my eyes. The act of rubbing tinted sunscreen on my face is accompanied by a reflection on the subtle vanity involved, ultimately concluding that its significance lies in being an integral part of who I am.
Lacing up my sneakers prompts a reminder to slide a note into my son's school bag. Thoughts of his happiness and the hope that he embraces his kind heart persist as I navigate the delicate balance of safeguarding him while encouraging him to venture beyond the confines set for protection. The contemplation extends to my own defiance of societal and gender norms, striving to create a better life for him and others by challenging barriers interwoven with subconscious biases.
Entering the foyer and stepping outside, the crunch of gravel beneath my sneakers accompanies a realization – strength and weakness exist on a nuanced spectrum, not in a binary framework. I am more, constantly evolving, navigating the complexities of life's journey with its uphill struggles, downhill joys, and in-between stumbles.
Embarking on my run, settling into a steady pace, I am reminded of the inherent beauty in this ongoing journey. Life unfolds with its mix of challenges, moments of delight, and the inevitable stumbles in between, forming a captivating narrative that continues to evolve.