I saw life. I saw a woman who has lived a good life. The gray hairs show that I’ve had struggles and worries in my life. But they also indicate strength. I walked through those hard times and came out stronger for having gone through it. The stretch marks show I was blessed with a pregnancy and the birth of a wonderful daughter. I was honored with the title of Mom. The wrinkles are proof there has been laughter in my life. The age spots prove I’ve spent many hours in God’s creation we call outdoors. The glasses on my face are evidence of viewing life, and being able to see the beauty God has placed around me. The extra pounds are evidence of being blessed with food to eat and the skill to cook it. The daily aches and pains are proof I was blessed with a strong healthy body which is capable of working long, hard hours. My long gone memory only indicates I have learned to focus on the important aspects of life and let the nonessential nonsense go.
As I stand there and look at this new woman I’ve become, I realize the world would call these characteristics deformities. These are physical features to be ashamed of which need to be altered according to the world. But I consider them badges of honor. Evidence which prove I’ve been blessed my whole life. I will wear these badges with pride and gratefulness. Gratefulness because not one day did I have to walk alone. Every tear, laughter, heartache, pain, and joy in my life God was always there. Always with me even when I wasn’t seeking Him, He was always there. I’ve got more badges to earn in my life. I’m sure most of them will slip upon me before I realize it. I’m going to think of them as physical reminders of my blessings. So the next time you stand before your mirror instead of wondering when you did become so old; see yourself for what you are: a woman who has lived!