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Find Inspiration In Your Eyes…

July 11, 2013 By momcafe 146 Comments

Last night I did the usual.  I decided I was too tired to shower off the humid grunge from the rainy long day of toting kids to camp and swim team and a birthday party and then spending the evening at my daughter’s swim meet.  Instead, I washed my face and looked up into the mirror to do the usual self-critique:  identifying all the wrinkles, break-outs, dark circles and greasy hair…reflected in the bright unforgiving mirror.

Then I caught my eyes.

I froze.

I stared deep into them.

I had a moment…

My stare remained locked, as the color and the shape revealed what lived beyond them.

I saw a sweet innocent little blue-eyed, pearly white-haired child in an adorable red bikini smiling.

I saw an awkward pimple-faced grade school kid carrying all her instruments down the walking path to school.

I saw a troubled, heartbroken and lost teen… searching for peace and acceptance and love.

I saw a sin-soaked, shameful, rebellious, risk-taking, soul searching, dream catching, adventurous, flailing, flying, finding… twenty-something young woman.  Passionate, broken, learning and healing.

I saw a thirty-something woman who surrendered and grieved and celebrated and loved and gave and discovered new-found wisdom and faith. 

I saw a 40-something weary, terrified, fumbling mother with a new purpose filled with doubts and strength.

And I started to cry…

I continued to look…and see a history that is rich and broken.  Painful and purposeful.  An incredible and invincible journey up to this very moment of deep introspection…

Locked in a passionate gaze with myself and all that I am.

My tears slowly dried.

As a smile emerged in the mirror’s image, reflecting sweet and subtle compassion and fierce and fulfilling pride.

Behind all the signs of living.  Beyond the circles and the wrinkles and the aging…

I found a woman with faith and grace and giving.  A woman who never stops trying.  A woman who loves unending.  A woman who has grown and matured and failed and fallen.  A woman who never gives up and rarely gives in.  A woman who is wise and courageous and loyal.  A woman who has grown and found her way…still stumbling, still failing.

Yet, forgiving.

I nodded, as my wrinkles and circles and every flaw disappeared.  I lifted my head in loving acceptance and agreement.

I am battered and beautiful.  Guilty and grace-laced.  Vulnerable and victorious.  Fearful and fortified.  Empty and empowered.  Fumbling and fulfilled.

This life, this woman, this soul, this heart, this mind…these eyes.

They are mine.

All mine.

 

Find Inspiration in Your Eyes

Author Signature

Filed Under: Encouragement in Expression, Encouragement in Faith, Encouragement in Healing Tagged With: Appearance, Encouragement, Encouragement in Faith, Inspiration, Self Esteem, Women

Comments

  1. Considerer says

    July 11, 2013 at 5:08 pm

    They say eyes are a window to the soul. I don’t see why not 🙂 Beautifully put.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:38 pm

      Yes… I caught an amazing unpredictable and powerful glimpse that night. It was truly amazing. Look for yourself, sweet friend! I bet your eyes show a magnificent beauty and depth too…

      Reply
      • Considerer says

        May 11, 2014 at 2:08 pm

        This must have been one of the first few things I read of yours? Or is it? I don’t even know how long your blog has been a staple for me. And apparently last July I was quite rude and never replied. Never even crowed about scoring FRIST on your post (though back then, it wasn’t a ‘thing’ yet)

        When I look into my eyes…usually I see puzzlement, bemusement and sometimes the universe 🙂

        Reply
        • momcafe says

          May 13, 2014 at 3:10 pm

          I KNOW you see more than that. I could write a 1,000 word post about what I SEE in YOUR EYES lovely Lizzi!! Eyes are truly the window to our soul, yes? You eyes stretch deep… into a rich trove of goodness and yes, some puzzlement and dark places…but the goodness and glory and light far exceed the holes in your soul. They beam from your eyes… and all around you feel the rays.

          Reply
          • Considerer says

            May 13, 2014 at 3:45 pm

            You make me sound like Cyclops (X-men – you know – the one with laser beams which come out of his eyes 😉 )

            YES alright I know what you mean 😀

            Reply
            • momcafe says

              May 13, 2014 at 6:55 pm

              bwahahahahaha!!!!!! 😉

              Reply
  2. Philip V Ariel says

    July 11, 2013 at 6:19 pm

    Hi, Good one, Great self examination. Well written piece. Keep writing. Keep inform. Best Regards. Philip

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:40 pm

      Thank you so much for stopping by and reading, Phillip! So grateful.

      Reply
  3. Laurie says

    July 11, 2013 at 8:34 pm

    Beautiful writing, as always. A beautiful person you are. I love your descriptive acceptance.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:40 pm

      Thank you so much Laurie!! 🙂 It was truly Divine.

      Reply
  4. Andrea says

    July 11, 2013 at 11:29 pm

    My favorite bits “I am battered and beautiful. Guilty and grace-laced. Vulnerable and victorious. Fearful and fortified. Empty and empowered. Fumbling and fulfilled.” lovely post

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:41 pm

      Oh thank you so much Andrea! Your favorite “bits” mean the world to me… They are my favorite too. 🙂

      Reply
  5. Marcia says

    July 12, 2013 at 12:58 am

    Beautiful Chris! I loved your inward momentary journey! Thank you!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:42 pm

      Thanks honey… it was pretty amazing. I just love those moments. That one was a powerful one. 🙂

      Reply
  6. Tammy says

    July 12, 2013 at 1:53 am

    Oh the tears! They came rushing from me unexpectedly as I read this beautiful introspection from this woman I love and respect so much. So absolutely beautiful are you Chris – beautiful and strong. Hard times don’t steel your faith and spirit of loving others away. You are such and encouragement. I wanna be you when I grow up!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:43 pm

      AW!!! You are such a love and such an ENORMOUS blessing in my life. Your beauty shines bright and your love endures all.
      Your encouragement inspires me to be a better me. 🙂

      Reply
  7. another jennifer says

    July 12, 2013 at 2:00 am

    I so love this, Chris. And it so makes me want to meet you in person even more! You are a beautiful person!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:45 pm

      AW Jennifer!!! That means the WORLD to me! And it makes my heart break into pieces thinking I am missing the great opportunity to meet YOU, my friend. It WILL happen. I am sure of that… 🙂

      Reply
  8. Rosslyn Elliott says

    July 12, 2013 at 2:18 am

    Another Jennifer, if you met Chris in person, you would find out that she is every bit as wonderful to know as she seems from her thoughts here.

    Much love to you, Chris.

    Reply
    • another jennifer says

      July 12, 2013 at 12:32 pm

      I knew it! Thanks for the confirmation, Rosslyn. 🙂

      Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:47 pm

      OH, how deeply grateful I am to have your beautiful words of encouragement and love Rosslyn. You just don’t know how much this means to me…

      Coming from you, I am so incredibly honored. 🙂

      Reply
  9. Mary @ A Teachable Mom says

    July 12, 2013 at 2:52 am

    Ditto to all the comments above – you are indeed a beautiful person inside and out. I love the imagery, the acceptance and your descriptive human words. All yours. All human. Gorgeous post, Chris.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:49 pm

      Thank you SO much Mary… I can’t tell you how good it felt to have that intense and passionate moment with myself. I truly believe we all could and should have it.
      Every one of us is worthy of that, don’t ya think? YOU, my friend are beautiful. Xoxo…

      Reply
  10. Julie Chenell DeNeen says

    July 12, 2013 at 2:54 am

    Absolutely beautiful and true. It’s hard though- I imagined that it would be hard for me to say that about myself. I’m so much better at bringing me down, then lifting me up. It hit me…ironically, between the eyes.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 3:56 pm

      I get that Julie… I truly get that. But here’s the thing- you are you…

      All your pieces and parts, both ugly and beautiful are yours and yours only. Each piece is worthy of your acceptance and your UNconditional love. You have the rest of your life to live with you- perhaps it’s time to realize that even those bruised or battered parts are worthy of your love and deep honor. You’ve earned that! Embrace yourself, all of you. Take pride in who you are. Your history, your layers and layers of life… create you. Treasure them like rich gems. Why not?

      Reply
  11. Ilene says

    July 12, 2013 at 11:23 am

    There is so much to you – and while reading this, it reminds me that there is so much to all of us. This morning, when I look in the mirror, I’m going to try to look beyond my own dark circles and crow’s feet and remember that. xxxooo

    Reply
  12. momcafe says

    July 12, 2013 at 4:58 pm

    YES ILENE!!! There is so so SO much to every single one of us! That’s the richness in finding our self love and worth, isn’t it? Why not love every part of who we are? Why not accept and honor those beautiful parts and broken pieces each the same. We add more “jewels” to who we are every day in our lives… some pretty, some not. But they are ours. I find a profound power in honoring that truth. I bet you do too, dear friend. 🙂

    Reply
  13. Tracie says

    July 12, 2013 at 5:34 pm

    This post, these words, your heart…all beautiful. So very beautiful.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 12, 2013 at 5:42 pm

      Oh Tracie… thank you from the bottom of my heart!! I think in this new self discovery, I learned how to truly accept all my parts and pieces. Even the ugly ones. They all are what make me who I am. 🙂

      Reply
  14. The Dose of Reality says

    July 12, 2013 at 11:04 pm

    What a beautiful and moving post, Chris. It’s really a poem. I love it. I absolutely love it. I’ve already read it twice…and I’m going back for a third time right now.

    This line made me tear up: “I lifted my head in loving acceptance”
    Beautiful. –Lisa

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 13, 2013 at 12:25 am

      I am so, so glad you read it over again Lisa! Perhaps it’s impact on your heart truly says something about you. Beautiful you. Every single layer and fiber and gift that is you. It was SO weird how it all just hit me! Owning all my parts… feeling a deep resonating acceptance of the truth. I have so many parts of me that I have been ashamed of and hated and wept over… now I feel a new sense of appreciation for each broken piece that was/is/will be me.

      Oh Lisa, try it… it’s absolutely freeing and worth celebrating who we are! I mean, why not? You are the only you ever. EVER! Oh, how I just love that. 🙂

      Reply
  15. Dani Ryan says

    July 13, 2013 at 12:43 am

    Wow. Just, wow… What an amazing post.

    “I am battered and beautiful. Guilty and grace-laced. Vulnerable and victorious. Fearful and fortified. Empty and empowered. Fumbling and fulfilled.” <<– Amen to that.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 13, 2013 at 1:20 am

      Thank you SO SO much Dani!!! I am so honored and thrilled you stopped by to read it! I love that line too… because it embraces every one of us really. 🙂

      Reply
  16. Mo at Mocadeaux says

    July 13, 2013 at 6:08 am

    What they say is true: the eyes are the window to the soul. Thank you for this beautiful, honest and inspirational post.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 13, 2013 at 10:32 am

      Yes… and if you look deep enough, you will discover the most unique and beautiful soul that is in you. Oh, how I want every single woman (or man) to have a moment like mine!
      Thank you so so much for your kind words and for taking the time to stop by and read mine. So grateful!

      Reply
  17. misssrobin says

    July 13, 2013 at 7:00 pm

    Beautiful post. It sounds like you have found peace with yourself. What a gift. It’s something I’ve found in my forties as well. And it’s a wonderful thing.

    Happy Sharefest. I hope you have a lovely weekend.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 14, 2013 at 3:30 am

      Oh Robin, thank you so so much for your sweet encouragement and taking the time to stop by. I am SO glad you have found this gift too! I know you have had your share of hardships and struggles, my friend.

      True self love and acceptance is a wonderful and amazing blessing to be had by all. Apparently, it takes about 45 or so years to really “get it” for us, eh? 🙂

      Reply
  18. Alison says

    July 14, 2013 at 3:18 am

    This: “A woman who has grown and found her way…still stumbling, still failing.” That mirror can do a number on us sometimes, but when we have that moment when God can get us to look past the mirror and at the woman He sees and loves, time and its wounds are redeemed, and so are we!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 14, 2013 at 3:27 am

      Oh Alison, that is just beautiful! Yes, new friend- YES! It is amazing when we embrace His Grace and apply it to ourselves. We are redeemed in His Eyes… why not ours?
      I am so grateful for your comment. Thank you so much for reading and sharing!

      Reply
      • Alison says

        July 14, 2013 at 3:42 am

        You’re so very welcome!

        Reply
  19. Candice says

    July 14, 2013 at 1:06 pm

    Imagine what we would accomplish as a human race if we ALWAYS gave ourselves the acceptance, love, and grace that our Father does through his Son. What a beautiful moment you had, all should have it indeed…and that moment should stretch into way of thinking in all our moments. SOOOOO beautifully written Chris!!!!!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 15, 2013 at 6:04 pm

      Yes, indeed sweet sister! I agree wholeHEARTedly!!! 🙂 So much misery, sadness and pain swirls around this world of ours. God’s amazing Love and Grace would transform every heart.

      Thank you so much for being such a significant part of each and every season of my life…

      Reply
  20. Hope says

    July 15, 2013 at 5:17 pm

    I actually thought I commented. This is such a awesome post. Looking into ourselves and acknowledging our short comings and failures… is the best way to also see our growth. “I am battered and beautiful. Guilty and grace-laced. Vulnerable and victorious. Fearful and fortified. Empty and empowered. Fumbling and fulfilled.” Absolutely LOVE this part!

    Reply
  21. momcafe says

    July 15, 2013 at 6:06 pm

    I think that line says it all… but the intense acceptance deep down in my heart- lights those words up more for me.

    Acceptance and true self love is so difficult for so many… I pray this reaches hearts that struggle with this issue!

    Reply
  22. Stephanie (www.whencrazymeetsexhaustion.com) says

    July 15, 2013 at 6:45 pm

    Okay, could this BE more perfect? Ask that in Chandler Bing’s voice and then bring it in for a hug because, sister, this is IT. You’ve done what I hope so many more women–including myself–will do. You’re a diamond in the rough, Chris, and I am so grateful to know ya! xo

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 15, 2013 at 7:27 pm

      Hmm… feeling the hug right NOW!!!!! Xoxo….

      Thank you thank you thank you Stephanie!!!

      Oh, how I pray more women will have a moment like mine!!!

      Reply
  23. Beth says

    July 15, 2013 at 7:06 pm

    Just beautiful… this reminds me of an Alice Walker essay, “Beauty: When the Other Dancer Is the Self” – both are so powerful and eloquently written! I love it!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 16, 2013 at 6:43 pm

      Thank you SO much Beth!! Your feedback means the world to me! To be compared to Alice Walker is truly a blessing! So grateful you stopped by. 🙂

      Reply
  24. Kristen Daukas says

    July 15, 2013 at 7:51 pm

    I love this. And I love when we all come to this realization. I earned my (smile lines, gray hair) stripes, world and you can’t take that away from me.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 16, 2013 at 6:45 pm

      Do you hear my resounding “AMEN!!” Kristen??!! Oh yes, my friend… OH YES!!!! All mine. All yours. We OWN it! 🙂

      Reply
  25. Keith DuBarry says

    July 16, 2013 at 3:15 pm

    Wow, very inspiring and very powerful! Very nice 🙂 I highly enjoyed this 😀

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 16, 2013 at 6:47 pm

      Thank you so very much Keith! You too- YOU – all of you… love yourself. Embrace all that is you. You are a gift.

      So glad you stopped by, my friend. 🙂

      Reply
  26. Linda Tang says

    July 16, 2013 at 11:45 pm

    This is SO BEAUTIFUL, Chris!!!!!! I have no words….you said them so beautifully but painted an even more meaningful picture through them. Amazing.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 17, 2013 at 2:47 am

      Thank you so so much, sweet friend! Your comment means the WORLD to me… truly. 🙂

      Reply
  27. Tricia says

    July 17, 2013 at 1:20 pm

    It only takes an extra second to look beyond the surface, doesn’t it? And yet I fail to do it often. Love this post.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 17, 2013 at 3:23 pm

      I know I know… it’s so easy to “avoid ourselves” isn’t it? Ah but there is a whole world deep in there… ready for the taking, the accepting, and the love! You are such a dear to stop by Tricia… I am SO grateful!!!! 🙂

      Reply
  28. Lisa says

    July 17, 2013 at 3:23 pm

    I have a feeling I’ll need to revisit this post, many times, to soak up all that is good and true and transformative in these words. What a gift you’ve given us, Chris, by sharing this. I am grateful, and I hope that someday we all see each other through similar eyes. xoxo

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 18, 2013 at 4:28 am

      Oh Lisa… I am so grateful for your beautiful comment!!! Thank you so so much. I want to re-read it over and over again. 🙂 You have given me a gift in your encouragement and oh, how I love that you truly took my words, my experience, my journey… me… to heart. For that I am deeply touched. I pray we all can see beyond our eyes and embrace who we are- every single part of us is worthy of our love.

      Reply
  29. Ren says

    July 17, 2013 at 8:25 pm

    That was lovely! I’m so glad I visited today!

    Visiting from the Prowess and Pearls blog hop 🙂

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 18, 2013 at 4:29 am

      Oh I am so glad you visited today too!!! Thank you so very much Ren! So grateful…

      Reply
  30. Capri + 3--Theresa says

    July 18, 2013 at 12:05 am

    I love that you start with a critical unforgiving look at yourself and then a journey to acceptance. I found you on “Pour Your Heart Out.”

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:08 pm

      Oh Capri!! I am so sorry this response is so late!! I am so grateful you stopped by to read my post!! It seems it’s more our nature to always be critical of ourselves… it takes time and effort and true self love to think otherwise.
      XO

      Reply
  31. Michell says

    July 18, 2013 at 2:10 am

    So eloquently written my sweet friend! It touches every aspect of the soul! Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful writings Chris and thanks for dropping by and linking up! Have a blessed evening! xoxo

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 18, 2013 at 4:31 am

      It was truly a “moment” for me, Michelle. I thought I had gone “deep” endless times in my healing and acceptance for all that I am… but apparently there was more to be done. I love how God continues to transform us and shine new light in places that sometimes we don’t even know we need it. 🙂

      Reply
  32. Shell says

    July 19, 2013 at 9:22 pm

    This has to be one of my favorite posts of yours. So beautiful. xo

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 20, 2013 at 2:03 pm

      Thank you so much, Shell. I think it’s one of my favorite’s too. 🙂

      Reply
  33. Amy says

    July 23, 2013 at 4:34 pm

    Chris, this is absolutely beautiful! Meeting you enriched my life more than you know. Bravo on this wonderful blog! I will be reading more, (and missing Bally’s more)!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:09 pm

      Oh AMY!!!! I am SOOO EXCITED you came by and you are reading me!!! What a total blessing to find you HERE!! I hope you are doing really REALLY well, my friend!! XOXOXO

      Reply
  34. Seana Turner says

    October 7, 2013 at 12:30 pm

    What a gift you have with words! I wish all women would read and absorb and accept this perspective. The eyes are the window to the soul, where the true “us” resides. The rest is just window dressing. (stopping in from SITS…)

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:10 pm

      I love LOVE how you put that Seana!! It’s so true!! And what we truly see, we must embrace as our own and love every last piece of it… 🙂

      Reply
  35. Alli says

    October 7, 2013 at 12:43 pm

    Very well written! I’m in my mid fifties and sometimes I don’t quite like the reflection I see in the mirror, but you put it all in perspective with your beautiful story. Thanks.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:12 pm

      I know… I get that Alli. And yet, why don’t we embrace who we are? We are who we are, and that should be enough. Even the parts we need to change or improve. Everything should start with us loving ourselves… the entire package. It’s all ours. 🙂

      Reply
  36. Tara @ Secretsofamomaholic.com says

    October 7, 2013 at 12:45 pm

    Absolutely beautiful. You are an amazing story teller. As I was reading, I pictured all of the moments of your life as you vividly described yourself. Excited to read more!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:13 pm

      Thank you so much Tara!! And doesn’t everyone have a story and parts of ourselves that aren’t as pretty that we need to embrace? Oh yes. We deserve our own love, if nothing else. 🙂

      Reply
  37. misssrobin says

    October 7, 2013 at 1:18 pm

    Still love this one!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:13 pm

      That’s because you “get it” Robin… you always do my friend. XO

      Reply
  38. Pam says

    October 7, 2013 at 1:28 pm

    This is so beautiful. “Guilty and grace-laced”–what a perfect description. Happy SITS day!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:14 pm

      Thank you so much Pam!! I love that line too… because it’s SO absolutely TRUE. 🙂

      Reply
  39. Shanna says

    October 7, 2013 at 1:35 pm

    Chris, you are so amazing! As a woman, I’ve had moments just like yours before, but I could never write and express them as beautifully as you just did. Don’t ever stop writing.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:15 pm

      Oh Shanna!! Your encouragement means the WORLD to me!! I am so glad you have had your “moments of inspiration” too, my friend. We need to embrace them!! 🙂

      Reply
  40. Sheila Skillingstead says

    October 7, 2013 at 1:44 pm

    A beautiful reflection (not a pun, just the best word for what you wrote) of where you were, are, and ready to go forward. Thank you. Reading it is a great way to start my Monday.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:16 pm

      I like that word Sheila!! It really is a reflection and I am proud to share it in hopes that whomever reads it can also have their moment in the mirror too… 🙂

      Reply
  41. Stacey @ Nurse Mommy Laughs says

    October 7, 2013 at 2:37 pm

    I’m so embarrassed to say this is the first time I have come to your site. What in the world have I been doing with my life? Your writing is so clear, real, raw and beautiful! I am going to sign up to be a regular. You have a true gift. Wow!!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:17 pm

      OMGOSH Stacey!! You are such a dear! Thank you thank you thank you… So excited to have you here!!! 🙂

      Reply
  42. Shari Lynne @ Faith Filled Food for Moms says

    October 7, 2013 at 2:55 pm

    Yes they are and you are very beautiful indeed! Happy SITS day! Blessings to you and many more years of loving what is behind those eyes!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:18 pm

      Oh thank you so so much Shari! That means so very much to me. Bless YOU!!! 🙂

      Reply
  43. Alison Hector says

    October 7, 2013 at 3:08 pm

    Chris! Oh wow, this touches every part of us women who are so hard on ourselves sometimes and forget to love and cherish the beautiful beings we are. Thank you for painting a beautiful portrait of yourself and, by extension, of all of us as we look into our own eyes.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:19 pm

      Oh you have such a way with words- always, Alison!! I just love how you put that. Thank you thank you thank you… 🙂

      Reply
  44. Darcy Perdu (So Then Stories) says

    October 7, 2013 at 3:38 pm

    such amazing imagery in this post — I feel like I saw you in that mirror too — and part of me too!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 5:20 pm

      Thank you so much Darcy!! I think there truly is a little bit of everyone in this post!! 🙂

      Reply
  45. Krystle Cook says

    October 7, 2013 at 3:44 pm

    Lovely! Sounds like you had a busy day with the kids. Love that you were able to look so deep within yourself and see all the beauty that you hold.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 3:33 pm

      Every day is busy with the kids, Krystle! lol 😉 I wish for everyone to find the same inspiration behind their eyes… Truly.

      Reply
  46. Rabia @TheLiebers says

    October 7, 2013 at 3:55 pm

    Beautiful! Both you and this post! Sometimes it takes a second look to see the truth.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 3:33 pm

      AW!! Thanks so much, my new friend!! Sometimes it takes years of looking… but eventually you realize it’s ALL you and it’s time to embrace it! 🙂

      Reply
  47. Jamie Rippy (@MamaMommyMom) says

    October 7, 2013 at 5:26 pm

    This is such a great post! I’ve caught my own eyes before and experienced something similar. When we really stop and look at ourselves on the inside, we are so much more than we give ourselves credit for.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 2:55 pm

      AMEN to that Jamie… AMEN to THAT!! I am so glad you have been ‘there’ with yourself!! I don’t think many have, and that breaks my heart. I pray they get there!!

      Reply
  48. Kim says

    October 7, 2013 at 6:12 pm

    What a beautiful post!! I feel like I went through each of the stages you described as your were writing about them.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 2:52 pm

      I think we may all be able to really reflect on our stages of life and eventually embrace every last piece and part of us that makes us who we are… It’s definitely a process, but oh how I pray everyone can land where I did that night. 🙂

      Reply
  49. Colleen says

    October 8, 2013 at 12:08 am

    Really tender and beautiful, thank you so much.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 2:31 pm

      Thank you so much Colleen. I appreciate you reading it. 🙂

      Reply
  50. Jean Lynd says

    October 8, 2013 at 6:02 pm

    I can so identify with those stages of your life. I’m 40 now, too, and often just don’t feel it. Thanks for the inspiration…and happy SITS day!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 8, 2013 at 7:19 pm

      Thank you SO much for stopping by Jean!! Our perspective starts to change as we age, doesn’t it? I tend to feel like a teenager, and yet- all the years bring me to these moments of enlightenment. I’m glad you were inspired!! 🙂

      Reply
  51. Lisa @ The Golden Spoons says

    November 8, 2013 at 1:53 pm

    Thank you so much for sharing this with me Chris! I want that moment so desperately – that moment when I can see the beauty in myself. I haven’t had one incredible moment like this, but I’m taking baby steps toward it with support from others and beautiful words like these. The next time I look in the mirror, I will remember your words and I will try, really try to see beyond what’s on the surface. This helps more than you will ever know~

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      February 2, 2014 at 5:16 am

      Oh Lisa!!! I love that you have such a heart to try and dig deep and truly believe my words and your potential for such self love!!!!

      I am going to be praying for you to have a moment like this… keep looking for it, okay?

      Reply
  52. Jennifer Steck says

    January 26, 2014 at 3:00 pm

    I’m so glad I found this post, Chris. The scars and sadness make the joy, happiness and love shine out so brightly. I’m there right now but it has taken many years. Your words and experience describe it so perfectly.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      January 28, 2014 at 3:36 am

      Ya know, it’s still one of my favorite posts. It was most definitely an “aha moment” and I am SO glad you are there right now too Jennifer!!! It is a beautiful place to land, isn’t it? I hope and pray others can read it and take a closer look at themselves through their own eyes… and conclude the same realization and revelation in doing so.

      I am SO glad you read it!!!! And so grateful. XOXO

      Reply
  53. Amber Day Hicks says

    January 26, 2014 at 4:34 pm

    I LOVE this! through the tears, I’m typing… as soon as I make it to a PC I’m going to blogher for my SSSF! XO.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      January 28, 2014 at 3:31 am

      SQUEE!!!!!! Can you imagine? Ohmygosh I don’t think I will EVER let go of you!!!! I will body SLAM you and hold on for hours!!!! I love you so much SSSF!!! (Do you know I literally chuckle and have this lingering sigh every stinkin’ time I write SSSF- and say our ‘code’ in my head?) I love- US. 🙂

      Reply
  54. Manal The Go Go Girl says

    January 27, 2014 at 1:47 pm

    Such a beautiful piece Christine. You are my inspiration! Thank you!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      January 28, 2014 at 3:05 am

      AW! Thanks so much sweet friend! And YOU- are mine. 🙂 XOXO

      Reply
  55. My Inner Chick says

    February 2, 2014 at 5:25 pm

    ***S T U N N I N G*****

    WOW.

    I am your newest fan! xx

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      April 28, 2014 at 2:30 am

      I love you. How can two women have such an incredible connection from miles away?

      It happens.

      Right here.

      Reply
  56. Beth Teliho says

    April 28, 2014 at 3:22 am

    *chills* that my be my favorite post of yours ever. So amazing, touching, honest…..every single adjective there is. This will resonate with me for a long time, as will your comment on my post, which I read three times and then decided to print and save. Your words did something to me. A permission. A healing. A place to put those feelings.

    Thank you for pointing me here sweet friend. *hugs*

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      April 28, 2014 at 3:52 am

      I don’t have words that describe the depth of my emotions right now… there are none that go to that place. I can only attempt to use what language we have with these letters composed to make beautiful words- that somehow reflect the goings on within. I am SO profoundly touched by your response, and I am equally thrilled that you printed out my comment- to perhaps be placed on purpose where you most need it.

      May it grant you the door to open and ignite the beautiful calm waters that are your truths. My prayer is that you bask in the light’s reflection… and when the stones get ‘forced up’ again, the process will once again be your healing path to that place of peace amidst the crystal layers that settle back in again. They always will… because that, my friend- is the home in who you are. Simply allow the muddy waters beneath to settle after the vapors spin… they will lose the current, because the power of the true water’s weight will eventually prevail.

      I speak from much experience. 🙂

      Reply
  57. Tara Newman says

    May 11, 2014 at 3:42 pm

    Whoa! Moving, beautiful, real, deep, emotional, and utterly transformative. Way to sum up everything in my head that I struggle to make sense of.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      May 13, 2014 at 2:57 pm

      Oh Tara! Thank you so so much for coming by to read this, and ‘getting it’. That means the WORLD to me!!!

      Reply
  58. Bonnie Lyn Smith says

    March 7, 2015 at 6:50 pm

    I just saw this on HuffPo but couldn’t figure out how to leave comments there. Beautiful, just beautiful! I’m so excited to see you out there being daringly vulnerable with a wider audience who needs Jesus. We welcome people in with our honesty. You are so relatable and disarming. Blessings to you!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      March 9, 2015 at 3:50 am

      Oh Bonnie! You are SUCH a dear to come over here to share your beautiful encouragement with me!! Thank you, my new precious friend. Your words mean the WORLD to me! XO

      Reply
  59. sherill says

    June 5, 2015 at 12:33 am

    Thank you so much for sharing such a beautifully written post. It is very touching and very inspiring. Great Read!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      June 7, 2015 at 3:04 am

      Sherill, I’m so glad you came bu to read this. Thank you so much for your precious comment. May you find your own inspiration in YOUR eyes! <3

      Reply
  60. lynne says

    July 2, 2015 at 1:33 am

    Hi, what a beautiful post. I once read a quote that says” Our eyes speaks the truth when everything else is a lie” and I do believe that it is true. Thanks for sharing. Great Read!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      July 6, 2015 at 7:31 pm

      Oh Lynne, I’m so glad you came to read this post! I absolutely love that quote. *Writing it down* Thank you for sharing it. 🙂

      Reply
  61. Kathy says

    August 17, 2015 at 3:17 am

    I thought of a rose bush reading this. Beauty, thorns and all! Such a precious post, the tears so real!

    Reply
    • Kathy says

      July 6, 2016 at 12:24 am

      Hi ya Chris.. I miss you too! This summer already is taking me away from reading alot of blogs..but I will try to make it a point to find you!..I want to feature this and another blog of yours on our Blog Tour this week!! I’m so blessed to be share you with my friends!! Bless you, find that time for you this summer, and I know we will connect because we are soul sisters..so I’ll find you!

      Reply
      • momcafe says

        July 6, 2016 at 1:45 am

        Aw Kathy! I miss you so much! I hope you are truly enjoying your summer, my friend. And US? Soul sisters indeed. I KNOW we won’t lose touch. You just enjoy and embrace your season. I’ve been so busy over here, I’ve lost most of my online time as well. I try to keep up a little in the summer, but it’s just too difficult to do with the kids here. We moved my mom into town (from WI), so that has taken up a lot of time and energy as well- getting her unpacked and settled in. You are welcome to share any of my blogs, and I am truly honored you will! Thank you, friend. HUGS to you always. XO

        Reply
  62. Tina says

    September 28, 2015 at 10:00 pm

    How wonderful that you able to accept YOU. It took me a long time, too! I recently posted a picture of me 30 years ago and I was staring at that picture wondering who in the world that lady is! The years have aged and matured me, and I’m wiser for the time I have on this earth. Wrinkles? No way. They are smart lines. Gray hair? I’ve earned every single one of them. Life is good, and gets better with age.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      September 29, 2015 at 3:42 pm

      AMEN to THAT Tina!! With aging comes such a fresh breath of acceptance and gratitude! Aren’t WE the lucky ones! Thank you so much for coming by to celebrate this moment with me. 🙂

      Reply
  63. Roshni says

    October 1, 2015 at 4:27 pm

    Oh, Christine, what a beautiful piece for self-compassion!! {{hugs}}

    Reply
  64. Kenya G. Johnson says

    February 12, 2016 at 12:25 pm

    Perfect post to share for the prompt. Don’t you feel growth from when you wrote it? I love the soul inside us that can me captured and written about by looking at our reflection. This was beautiful.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      February 15, 2016 at 4:25 am

      Thanks so much Kenya! Yeah, when I saw the prompt, I just had to add this one! 🙂 It was an incredible moment, indeed. I don’t always have those, when I look into the mirror- actually I RARELY DO! lol But that night, something clicked. I’m so glad it did.

      Reply
  65. ruchira says

    February 12, 2016 at 4:34 pm

    Eyes are indeed the window to the soul 🙂

    We both resonate on that, Christine!
    xoxo

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      February 15, 2016 at 4:22 am

      Exactly, Ruchira! Sometimes I can see it all… 🙂

      Reply
  66. Kristi Campbell says

    February 12, 2016 at 10:37 pm

    Chris! This is stunning and beautiful and so so true. It takes a long time to accept ourselves and once we’re past the moments of seeing our flaws, we realize how truly beautiful we were (which then it becomes hard to not compare to today and wish for that youth back).

    Your words “guilty and grace-laced” are going to stay with me. I’m so glad to have read this and that you linked it up for Finish the Sentence!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      February 15, 2016 at 4:20 am

      Thank you so much love, for GETTING IT. That moment was incredibly powerful for me… I’ll never forget it. AND I need to never forget it, for all those other times I look into the mirror and can’t go ‘there’. <3

      Reply
  67. Anna Fitfunner says

    February 13, 2016 at 11:02 pm

    Yes. Seeing all of your selves, as they blend to form the you looking into the mirror — and finding the acceptance to be happy with the vision that is looking back at you. I’m so happy for you!!!!!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      February 15, 2016 at 4:13 am

      Thank you so much Anna! That moment was something else… I wish I had more of them. But I will hold on to that one, when I need the reminder… <3

      Reply
  68. April G says

    February 15, 2016 at 1:03 pm

    It’s a beautiful thing to see all of your history in one gaze. There’s something about the progression that is just captivating to read.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      February 16, 2016 at 3:21 pm

      Thank you so much April. Your comment means so very much to me! <3

      Reply
  69. Debbie says

    July 6, 2016 at 5:38 am

    Absolutely beautiful. Thanks for such a beautiful testimony.

    Reply
  70. Amber says

    July 6, 2016 at 9:18 pm

    LOVE you SSSF!!!

    Reply
  71. Emily says

    July 6, 2016 at 10:20 pm

    Love it! Sometimes when I feel bad about my appearance, I look at my eyes or smile and remember that there is life in me!

    Reply
  72. ~Karrilee~ says

    July 8, 2016 at 2:18 am

    Stunning and Beautiful and just one of the very best gifts being in your 40s gives! Love this!

    Reply
  73. Tammy says

    June 2, 2017 at 12:00 am

    Amazing language you put together, amazing talent you have, amazing God we serve! Your post has inspired me to seek more from God………

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      June 19, 2017 at 7:36 am

      Aw Tammy, your comment blessed me so much. <3 Thank you for reading and I'm so grateful my words inspired you to seek more from God. <3

      Reply
  74. Meropi Antoniadis says

    October 8, 2017 at 1:55 pm

    I came across your blog, as I’m laid up in bed(couch) with a broken foot (week 3). Thank you for your words. It’s as if you were looking in my mirror. I cried. I smiled. I’m so grateful.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      October 9, 2017 at 8:26 am

      Oh friend, I’m so glad you found my blog and my words resonate with you! I am so sorry you are laid up with a broken foot! Sigh. I know that season well, and I’d love to send you my book if you would like it. 🙂 Email me your address, and I’ll get it of to you asap. My email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com

      Reply

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