I’ve been hiding from all the socials for a while. Been busy feeling, processing and living my experience without sharing it to the inter webs. Except last week. Last week, I activated them to share and be vulnerable. To open up about something I felt called to do.
Last Friday I had my head shaved by one of my dad’s patients; standing in solidarity with children battling cancer. The ripple effect that occurred was quick! The wave of connections my story made with many others affirmed the passion I felt when I was led to this decision.
My father has treated so many children with cancer and blood disorders and I’ve witnessed their battles of the disease at such a young age. My entire upbringing was watching him be a hero saving lives.
When children and their parents receive the news of having being diagnosed with cancer, nothing from that point is their choice. They didn’t choose to be sick. They have to let go of all conceptions of their life before, so that they may give all their energy to overcoming. They have to fight a battle. They are warriors now trying to live a life that most take for granted.
Many of us don’t fully appreciate the choices in freedom we have. The choices in our health and taking care of our souls.
I had the ability to choose this and go forward to try to bring more awareness to cancer, hair and what it all means to me.
I made the decision two weeks before the event. Once I decided, I knew it had to be done. The anticipation during that time allowed me to feel more into it and to embrace my curls even MORE FULLY (which I didn’t know was even possible). Feeling the power my curls provided around my face and how much it had grown and formed through the seasons as I evolved. As a child I was fed the image of perfection and beauty as blonde straight hair, as most women are. I didn’t understand then that beauty existed in all forms. It took seasons to stop damaging my hair to let my curls form naturally. These past few years my curls have made me feel more me. Embracing how Lebanese they made me look, how much I resembled my mother, and the women before me.
As women, we have used hair to define us. It is something we have used to shield ourselves from the world. To feel beautiful, confident and strong. But what happens when we don’t have it any longer?
I cannot speak for all but letting go of my hair has shown me that I am able to embody my full being without the need of that shield. It feels natural when I look in the mirror. Seeing my truest self; looking back at me. The new experiences and sensations of wind, water and sun upon my crown are so stimulating. I feel liberated and free.
So I will leave you with this.
Continue to stand in your power.
Continue to claim your authentic self and radiate more in your being.
