Kaleidoscope 2014

Page 8

Note to self

J.M. Conway

I come from a long line of womyn with big bodies and have lost, two of the three womyn instrumental in my rearing to untimely, health related deaths. At times, I view the achievement of a positive relationship with my own body as my "final frontier." Even though people may see me and assume that my slight frame indicates a womyn in perfect health, I constantly struggle with food abuses and habits of inactivity. I made this vision board to encourage my continued movement towards my personal health and wellness. It includes images and words that inspire me to move my body, consume healthy food and affirm my actions. There are also reminders of the risk and surrender it will take and also reminders that through it all I will be held within the "arms of the mother." For me, the mother represents an important spiritual principle of guidance, inspiration and support. You can even see that in the affirmations posted at the bottom of the page, I've crossed out any gendered language for the Divine, as in most religions masculinity is the default gender representation of god. However, it is my belief that divinity is full of feminine energy and that as Womyn we embody The Divine. It is my hope that this piece can serve as a sign of remembrance for other Womyn of Color. May we all remember: the complete glory of our bodies; the importance of reconnecting with all of who and how we are; the power inside of us all to accomplish our heart's wildest desires; and our rightful place as the most valuable voice on the matter of our own lives. Your body is your birthright. Be ye at the center of yourself always.

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