I really needed to read this chapter this week. Focus on getting dressed and taking care of ourselves can have a downside too; when we let it control or distress us. It’s tempting to walk this road sometimes. I want so much to feel good about myself and show that I’m not just a frumpy mom who hangs out all day in sweat pants. (I am wearing yoga pants as I write this, but you’ll forgive me for that, won’t you?) I want to prove to the world, myself and other women that being a mom doesn’t mean being unfashionable or unattractive.
But that isn’t freedom. When I start doing these wonderful things for the wrong reason, I lose the positive benefits. I am beautiful and I am loved. Getting dressed helps me to show on the outside how beautiful I feel on the inside. Except sometimes I don’t feel beautiful on the inside and I think that dressing up on the outside will make it better. Sometimes it does, but only when I do it for the right reasons.
Inspiration I’ve Imbibed
Getting dressed is only a good thing if I don’t let it become another chain or expectation. the focus of this whole book is on helping me realize that I am worth the effort. But if I decide that anytime I don’t get dressed I am some how less, I’ve missed the point.
Challenges I’ve Pursued
I’m still getting dressed but I’m also cutting myself some slack. When my kids and I were all sick a few weeks ago, I wore yoga pants, a long sleeve shirt and a comfy sweater. You know what I didn’t wear? My pajamas. I made an effort even if it was a small one. You don’t always have to do it all. Sometimes if things are particularly difficult, don’t make it harder on yourself by having unrealistic expectations. If you’ve been up all night, focus on getting a shower and putting on clothes besides pj’s. But don’t feel like a failure if you don’t put on makeup or accessorize fully. Give yourself grace. Dress in freedom.
Next- Frumps to Pumps: Is Being “Cute” Biblical?
Week 3: Dress Differently, Act Differently
Week 4: Prophesy Hope Through Accountability
Week 8: A Moment of Silence for Showers
Week 11: Too Tired to Get Dressed
