I’ve Been Exposed – 4 Years On

In 2009 I participated in the lovely Michelle’s Exposed Movement. My original entry is here and my one year follow-up is here.

This year Michelle urged all the original participants to post an update. I am having trouble knowing what to say.

I’m reluctant to post a full length picture of my body – not because I’m ashamed, but because it perpetuates the myth that my worth can be judged by my appearance. You’ll think I’m too fat and therefore deluded about loving how I look, or you’ll think I’m normal so you’ll scoff at my struggles with accepting my body. You’ll compare yourself to me — you’ll be bigger or smaller, a position from which one of us is deemed by society as being less beautiful.

kissing

So this is as close as I get — my heart exposed in one single moment.

selfie

This is me, four years older, wiser, happier, more loving and more loved than I was when the Exposed Movement began.

My body and I are now in a relationship, trying to find a way to live as equals and nurture each other even though the constant ache in my shoulder and the hot flushes remind me I’m not getting any younger.

My dream for the future is to be a healer, a shaman, a person who helps to put the pieces back together. The instruments of my practice are my words written on the page. I long for the day when the stories I tell help transform lives.

My heart, my life, my dreams — these three things I expose to you today.

About KatieP

Embracing my midlife sexy while exploring modern love & relationships • Devoted to all things beautiful • Master of Arts in creative writing & non-fiction writing

5 thoughts on “I’ve Been Exposed – 4 Years On

  1. I love this. SOOOOO many others who have participated have felt the exact same way as you do. I’m so encouraged and love the fact that so many others feel it’s a journey as well and no longer as hyper focused on the idea that it’s a destination. xo

  2. Your post resonates with me – it is similar to how I felt reading my original Exposed post again. Self-image and self-love are nothing about what the photos or words capture – rather, about what is in the heart and soul. Thank you for sharing your a glimmer of yours with this post!

  3. Thank you for sharing so openly.

    I, too, have struggled with self-image and self-love. Ending the constant negative self-talk is difficult, but infinitely worth it!

    EVERYBODY has a story that can transform lives, and when you’re ready for it, yours will too (although it likely has already, without you even knowing it!)

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