I've poked and I've pinched
The flesh of my skin
I'm never satisfied with its shape
I've squeezed and I've lifted
With belts and with bras
Trying to hide all these mistakes.

I've cried and I've sobbed
About the extra pounds gained
From childbirth, from sadness,
From inherited DNA..
I've abused and I've neglected
This body God's given
I've wasted so much time
I could've used for living.

I'm now starting to notice
The miracle of a woman's design -
This womb carried my children
It is now a holy shrine!

These breasts have nursed my babies
This back has stood so strong
These knees have bent in prayer
These legs have danced in song
These hands have healed the sickly
These eyes have cried in wonder
These arms have held my family
These lips have kissed with thunder

My body is simply perfect
There isn't a single flaw
I may not be thin or skinny
But today I applaud with awe:
This blessed vessel is mine -
Its curves, its flow, its grace
No longer will I despise it..
Its something I choose to embrace!

04/27/2006