Embracing Me
This morning, I reflected on my life and the journey of wellness I began to break what I once saw as a family curse. This journey revealed a family history of heart disease, diabetes, and mental illness. But even more importantly, it helped me understand why God entrusted me with the Embracing Me Project. This project is about discovering who I am in God and recognizing who He is in me.
Embracing Me is not just for me—anyone can
declare it: "I am embracing my God-given identity."
When you embrace your God-given identity, you accept that you are
beautifully and wonderfully made in His image. God sculpted you, poured gifts
and talents into you, and called you worthy.
Mind-Body-Spirit Observations
As I’ve examined my family’s history, I’ve noticed a pattern of
disconnection between the mind, body, and spirit. These observations are not
just about my loved ones but about myself as well. When one part of us is
off-kilter, it impacts the whole. For example, an overwhelmed mind burdened by
unresolved trauma, grief, loss, divorce, or other challenges affects the body
and spirit. Similarly, an unsettled spirit lacking trust in God, in oneself, or
in one’s community ripples through the mind and body. And when the body
experiences illness or disability, it can distort how we see ourselves and our
worth, negatively impacting the mind and spirit.
When I think about wholeness, I think about how the mind, body, and
spirit work in harmony to allow us to live a life full and free just as we are.
These reflections challenge me—and now, you—to evaluate where disconnection
might exist and how to pursue greater alignment in your own life.
Identity Beyond Labels
Do you love yourself? Do you know who you are and who created you? Do you
understand why you were created? These questions matter because our identity is
so much more than the labels we often wear: mother, daughter, executive,
pastor, son, husband, or wife. Our true identity lies in who God made us to be.
The curse ends here. The separation from my true self and my God-given
identity ends with me. I am choosing to embrace all that I am, all that I was
created to be, and all that I am destined to do, using every gift and talent
God has placed within me.
Embracing Challenges and Differences
Every ailment, curse, or challenge doesn’t have to define us. That
doesn’t mean that everything we face isn’t real, but it does mean that it has
purpose. As I’ve reflected on disability and identity, I was moved by a book I
recently read: My Body Is Not a Prayer Request. This powerful work
reminds us that we are all different, and that’s exactly as it should be.
Whatever afflictions or challenges we face, our lives remain deserving of
dignity, honor, love, and respect.
When I say, “The curse ends here,” I mean I am embracing who I
am—precisely as I am—with faith that I can heal and grow in mind, body, and
spirit. And as I grow, I honor the experiences of others, understanding that
each of our paths is unique.
All bodies may not heal, and not all minds will heal because of the
brokenness one has experienced. It is our job to respect where people are and
meet them there, just as Jesus and the disciples did.
Words of Encouragement
- You are
wonderfully made and have a purpose that only you can fulfill.
- Your challenges
do not define you; they refine you.
- Embracing your
true identity is the first step toward healing and growth.
Questions for Reflection
- What steps can
you take today to embrace your God-given identity?
- How do you see
your mind, body, and spirit working together in harmony?
- What limiting
beliefs about yourself are you ready to let go of?
Coaching and Peer Support
If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey of self-discovery and healing, I invite you to explore coaching and peer support. I would be honored to walk with you on this journey. As a certified Peer and Recovery Support Specialist, mindfulness and self-healing coach, experienced author, and speaker, I bring a wealth of personal and professional experience, as well as educational aptitude, to guide you. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to helping you embrace your full potential.
Please visit my Coaching and Peer Support website for more information and to connect with me.
Disclaimer
I am not a doctor or licensed therapist. My work is rooted in faith,
self-healing, and mindfulness, and I offer support as a peer and coach. I am
unapologetically a woman of faith, a disciple of Christ, and committed to the
divine mandate to uplift and inspire others.
Notice/Disclaimer
This essay contains the original thoughts of Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris
and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or
use of this work in any form without the express written consent of the author
is strictly prohibited.
Thank you for respecting the creative integrity of this piece!
Remember, the journey to wellness begins with one step. Let’s walk this
path together.
With love and gratitude,
Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris
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