Every summer, the same old excuses echo around the pool. As sunlight sparkles off the blue water, children are leaping in, pretending to be mermaids, while the moms sit back on their lounge chairs, sharing reasons for staying dry. The laughter of the kids quiets as they pick up on the serious vibes and pained expressions of their mothers.
“My arms are too flabby.”
“My chest is too saggy.”
“My thighs have dimples.”
“I can’t get my hair wet.”
“My belly isn’t flat.”
“I’m too pale and wrinkled.”
“I indulged in too many carbs today.”
“My calves lack definition.”
These complaints continue, with each mom trying to outdo the other in listing body insecurities, many rooted in the changes that come with motherhood. But I’m not sitting with them; instead, I’m in the pool, holding my toddler close.
You might assume I’m someone who has it all together—perhaps a fitness enthusiast who enjoys yoga and runs marathons, flaunting a size small swimsuit and sipping on green smoothies. Wrong. Let me share a bit about myself. I carry cellulite on my upper legs (thanks, genes!), and I wear a two-piece suit that’s a size large to accommodate my curves. Scars and marks from insulin pump sites cover my lower back and stomach, and I always have my insulin pump clipped to my top, its tubing trailing down my side.
Here’s the reality: those medical devices are my lifeline. The scars I bear are badges of my journey, each one telling a story of survival. My skin reflects my battles, and every imperfection is a testament to my strength.
I may not be the most glamorous mom at the pool; in fact, I often look like a hot mess. Like many moms, I juggle tiredness and stress, showing up with a messy ponytail and an inexpensive swimsuit I found on sale. But when I peel off my cover-up and step into the water, I’m showing my kids that joy isn’t about looking perfect. I’m teaching them that beauty takes many forms and that my health challenges won’t stop me from embracing life’s pleasures—like sun, water, and laughter.
I won’t belittle my body just because it doesn’t align with society’s beauty standards. By rejecting the notion that I’m not worthy enough to swim, I’m instilling in my children the belief that their worth isn’t tied to their appearance.
I dream of a day when I can toss my insulin supplies into the Grand Canyon, celebrating freedom while indulging in a delicious funnel cake. But for now, I embrace the body I have—imperfect yet resilient.
Every woman faces insecurities, but I refuse to let mine shadow my children’s self-worth or limit their experiences. I’m diving into the pool this summer, next summer, and for many more to come. I’ll splash, laugh, and cheer. Will you join me?
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Summary: This summer, instead of focusing on our insecurities, let’s dive into the joy of swimming and show our children that fun and confidence come from within. Embrace your unique journey and the body you have, while teaching the next generation to celebrate life beyond appearances.