11/20/2025
This morning, I stepped into an elevator — full of breakfast, propped against the wall. Across from me was a young woman. She looked at me and smiled. She said, “I just love your whole outfit. I wish I had the confidence to wear that.”
Then she pointed at her stomach and whispered, “I’m really trying to lose this.” I told her, “Well, I have a podcast that might help you with that.” She asked, “Do you eat right?” And I said, “No — I just love my body.”
I shared that I’m grateful — because my body does everything I ask of her. No matter what size she is. Here’s what that young woman didn’t know: When she looked at me — confident, older, in a crop top and shorts — I was feeling insecure.
I’m up about 20 pounds.
My shorts don’t fit the way I want.
My belly is fluffier.
My thighs and arms feel tighter than I’d like.
And I almost didn’t wear that outfit.
But I did. Because it’s comfortable. Because maybe — just maybe — it’s cute. And because I’m done letting the “debate committee” in my head dim my light.
When I love me, I help other people love themselves. When we love ourselves, we make better, healthier choices — the kind we’d make for someone we cherish.
You are so precious. Treat yourself like someone you trust, adore, and count on. “When I shine with my own light, I allow others to see theirs. That’s the life I’m committed to living.” — Amy Chang
