The Battle Scars of Life

 

I am almost 54 and when it comes to scars I have many. Most people do. We can barely escape childhood without some but adulthood brings them, too. Mothers have scars from childbirth. From stretch marks to episiotomies to tearing to c-sections, our bodies will never be the same. There are scars from surgeries and stitches and just cuts and scrapes. Some people have scars from acne. Nearly every teen goes through dealing with pimples and blemishes but some have more of a struggle than others which leads to a lifetime of scarring on the face. 

Often the scars have specific memories that go along with them. We remember the moment they showed up. These are the battle scars of our lives. 

Not all scars are physical scars. Some are mental. They wreak havoc on our emotions. They can't be seen on our physical bodies but they are just as lasting. They effect our actions and reactions to those around us; sometimes without our realizing it. Often these mental battle scars cause more brokenness within us than any of the physical scars. These scars take the most work to get over and move past. They have a profound impact on our relationships and can cause harm or can help us to use our scars to be better and more compassionate and empathetic towards others. 

When it comes to the physical battle scars do not be embarrassed by them. Think of them as trophies from battles that you survived. When it comes to the mental scars use them to help others and to remind yourself of the things you have overcome.