What Do You Love About Your Body? by Shirley Paceley

So I was part of a team that trained self-advocates and allies on starting empowerment groups. Each training team consisted of two self-advocates and one or two allies. During a 2-week period, we trained over 100 people and there were opportunities for participants to work in small groups, select an activity among several that were provided, and share the activity with the larger group.

One activity that was shared involved body image. So we were all asked to draw a picture of our body. Yes, we had lots of stick figures! Then we were asked to come up with five things we liked about our bodies. This was hard for some folks, cause don’t we tend to criticize our bodies on a regular basis? What a great exercise to think about what we love about our bodies!! Anyway, in one of the training sessions, each person was asked to share with the group one thing they liked about their body. We heard many things like, “I like my hair because it is long”, and “I like my smile”. A woman named Mary said, “I like what I can do. I can stretch and I can get out of my wheelchair by myself. I am grateful for what I can do” and she placed her hand on her heart. I LOVE THIS! Mary was my greatest teacher that day and I try each day to remember this lesson of gratitude.

The other part of the lesson is this: When we are in relationship with people, let’s focus on what the person can do—not on what they can’t do! I have a friend/colleague who said, “I lived in a can’t prison for many years. I want to be seen for what I CAN do.” And also remember to focus on what you CAN do. Together we can make a huge difference in someone’s life. Do what you can. Peace out.