Re-create Continued.

I had a request to write more about recreating myself .  Fun! First in the final week of the 21-day challenge, something new with hair. I so often wash my hair, let it dry, get sidetracked doing various things and then last minute try to pull it together. Today, I opted for using the heat rollers and a small curling iron to curl it back away from my face. It was a little wild so I then pulled it back with a barette at the last minute.  But to spend more than 15 minutes with my hair is something new! 

Shoes: Ann Taylor Loft
Skirt: China Tailor (special memories when I wear this skirt)
Shirt: Ann Taylor
Necklaces: Ann Taylor/Banana Republic.

Back to re-creating myself. Although I have not had normal vision ever, I spent most of my growing up years with ability to see with no night vision and limited peripheral vision. I learned I had Retinitis Pigmentosa, officially, when I was 18 years old. I quit driving (had a restricted license) when my kids were very young and then began to use a cane in 1995. I recall a time of feeling so awkward about pulling out the cane. I had a choice to stay stuck or re-create myself and begin to use a tool that would help me.  During this time, I learned about being authentic to myself.  I still remember a former neighbor questioning my using the cane.  I realized she didn't understand nor could she and I needed to do what was best for myself and my family.   The cane became a symbol of freedom and empowerment. I let go of what will people think and it was amazing! I began to walk with a guide dog in 1997 and again felt some re-creation being experienced. With a guide dog, I learned to be much more assertive and gained so much more confidence.  I walked with confidence like I had not even known was possible.  As I have experienced challenging times -- being asked to leave a place that needs to be educated on the ADA, or someone that talks to me like a child; I find myself taking a gentle breath, smiling and educating them in a clear confidant way.   Perhaps part of my emphasis with my clients on Self-Compassion is I have found it a vital part in my journey of re-creating myself.  I acknowledge and support the hard parts of my journey in hopefully :) a healthy way.  (That sounds like another fun blog post.)   Where would I be without Retinitis Pigmentosa that has pushed me to a next level of re-creating myself.  I think we all have something that nudges us to re-create ourselves.  It is an ongoing journey.  I am grateful, and I hold my head high with a smile and let Cricket watch out for the obstacles.   I'm also glad today to be challenged by April to spend a little time on my hair!

Happy Monday! 

5K run this morning.  A little chill in the air ... fall is coming.