When I glance in the mirror I don’t look the same as I did before I had babies. My ribs stick out – still popped out from carrying a tiny human beneath them. My skin is stretched and loose and my stomach isn’t as flat as it used to be. There are spider veins on my legs and I jiggle in places I wish I wouldn’t.
The American culture has placed upon women the idea that our bodies are primarily sexual, but the Bible describes a woman’s body as life-giving. A tool to be used to grow another life and bring him or her into the world.
Tools are often not very beautiful. A well used tool has all sorts of marks on it from constant use.
I’m not saying you shouldn’t exercise or get in shape again after a baby. We need to maintain our bodies, and there is certainly nothing wrong with trying to look attractive for your husband.
But instead of trying to meet the unrealistic expectations of our culture and look the same after carrying children, I want to wear these changes with the knowledge that my body is a tool. A tool that has been used to bring life into the world.
I don’t ever want to be ashamed of that.
Yes, I look at the stretch marks as a badge of honor. Thee Lord chose to bless me with me children! I used to be very conscious of my physical looks, but now I’m much more concerned about building a godly character.
Amen Sister! Amen!! Such a good and timely reminder!
Amen and amen!
Good point! So true but sometimes difficult to live out 7 weeks post partum:) it helps tho that I made some of my maternity dresses nursing accessible. Having clothes that don’t fit tight definitely makes me feel better about myself!