31 March 2006

Only the strong survive

I want to show you my feet. I'll make my point in a minute. For now, just take a gander...

They're not my best feature. In fact, they are my worst. And I've often wondered what others think when they look at them... I've felt self conscious about them in the same way one might be of a big pimple on picture day. But today, I am proud of them. They've recently been manicured and filed and pumiced, so I don't know - maybe this picture doesn't do them justice, but I have corns and bunions and this thing on my heel called a Haglund's Deformity. This from 16 years of dance classes, time spent perfecting a talent, and in pursuit of a passion.

I've been in survival mode this week. A little overwhelmed with life in general. I found myself sitting on the edge of my bed yeserday afternoon, deep in thought. Deep in effort to tap into my inner strength. As I stared down at the floor I became momentarily distracted by my workworn feet. And it occurred to me what a symbol of strength they were. Battle wounds. Proof of perservearance.

I suddenly realized that if I am capable of enduring physical pain, of pushing myself a little harder, of building up my stamina, then I am certainly capable of bracing my faith, of standing a little taller and reestablishing my drive and resolve to keep on keeping on. And so I will.

13 comments:

Pam said...

Yes, you have the feet of a dancer, but the passion with which you pursue your dreams has its cost.

God's Word says it best: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring glad tiding of good things!"

May He use your feet to do the same, sweet Lei.

Stacy said...

Well said! Keep on keeping on! Stand up for who you are and WHAT you are! You are an inspiration to ME and I appreciate all you are and do!

Kristi said...

Nice feet, nice pedicure. Nice post. Funny how we can find inspiration in the craziest of places.

Tigersue said...

God's Word says it best: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring glad tiding of good things!"

I agree with the above, go listen to it on a recording of the Messiah! I fell in love with the verse even more when put to such wonderful and inspiring music.

Carrie said...

Your feet are super snazzy! My feet are in great need of some pampering for spring weather. I loved your post, as usual. Very thoughtful.

Valarie said...

great pedi, but oh man- they look painful. You do have a great amount of strength. Apparently both inner and toe. :)

sheri said...

Nice pedi! What a treat. You are a very strong person...inside and out. You can do this! I KNOW you can!

Zoe said...

I love your insight. I too have been searching for inner strength to go on . . .for various reasons. I wish I had something to remind me . . . humm, my hips. Yes, years of self medicating. LOL!

Andrea said...

great blog Lei. :)And your feet aren't that bad! lol

Unknown said...

I noticed your beautifully pedicured toes immediatly! Doesn't it feel great?Such insight you seem to have as well.
I have flintstone feet....literally Fred Flinstone must be a decendant of mine...we won't talk feet anymore.....

Rachelle said...

Lei, your posts are always incredible. You are so wise! You can find that inner strength. I admire you!

Heather said...

Lei, wonderful post! Truly inspirational.

Jane said...

Thanks for the inspiration. I think I too can keep on keeping on.

You're the best!