It constantly faces the world, serving as our porous, vital connection to it.
Those of us navigating eczema know how precious this barrier is when contemplating every aspect of our lives.
There is no escaping it.
Moreover, it is isolating.
Right now, in this heat I am experiencing, my body is broken out in rashes.
This can create a bifurcation: ourselves against our skin.
The me we wish to be and the me we have to be.
We negotiate with our textured skin in the mirror.
We whisper prayers to the universe before bed.
We down green concoctions that are marketed as wonderful remedies.
And when none of this works, its hard not to feel angry or defeated.
But, much like the seasons change, so do our circumstances.
Our skin ebbs and flows.
She may have patterns in her mischief, but her customization may never cease.
I know my immediate response is to be anxious and angry that I am missing my run tonight.
But instead of leaning into those emotions, I am choosing grace.
I am reframing the situation and building a win instead of a loss.
Tonight, I am taking the time to organize folders that have been pushed to the side.
I hope to harness this more regularly.
Will it ever be fair that we must sit back while others freely roam?
No, of course not.
There is even scientific proof in this.
You werent looking for blue.
Its the same for our emotions, our thoughts, and our reality.
Eczema is a beast and can be grueling at times.
But do not continually allow her to be the focus of your attention.
As an added bonus, I also challenge you to step out of your comfort zone.
I often hate the way my skin looks and feels, which doesnt help me mentally.
I keep my body fit and strong, but my skin occasionally halts those endeavors.
And, once complete, these vulnerable artists show me their work.
I am their muse, not a monster.
I am the gorgeous strokes on their page.
Those artists arent looking for perfection.
They are looking for beauty.
And eczema or not, we are beautiful.
It is a part of us that is worthy of loving.
Be your own glorious muse.
