Day 8 Dear Body

I’m Learning to Love You Again

A raw letter to the body that betrayed me… and now helps me make art.

Dear Body,

We’ve been through it, haven’t we?

You scared the hell out of me. One moment we were powering through life—wife, mom, therapist, life coach, friend—and the next, you collapsed, right into thevdoctor's arms. You betrayed me. I almost lost my life. I lay in a hospital bed, speech slurred, unable to move or go to the bathroom without help. You terrified me. I was furious with you.

But let me be clear: my self-esteem has always been strong. I love myself. I know my worth. That’s never been the issue. But we had issues, you and me.

I had to have a real, serious, out-loud, heart-to-body conversation. For real. Because statistically, I shouldn’t be here in the shape I’m in. That stroke could’ve taken everything—but it didn’t. You stuck around. Wounded, sure, but we're still here.

So yes, we talked.

I changed my diet. Carbs, the overly processed foods and I broke up!! We let go of some bad habits (and no, y’all, that part’s none of your business—😂🤣). I started listening more—resting when you scream for rest. Moving when you’re stiff. Feeding you colors and creativity instead of just caffeine and worry, you know I love my caffeine fix. You now hold paintbrushes and mix colors and whisper ideas to my tired but curious brain.

You’re helping me make art and I'm loving this newness. Did someone say, “flowers”? Yep. Love painting me some flowers.

So… thank you, body. For sticking with me. For healing in your own stubborn way. For letting me express love, humor, frustration, and beauty—even in the aftermath of trauma and chaos.

We’re not the same, and maybe we never will be. But I’m learning to be gentler with you. To trust you again. And to love the version of us that survived.

Today’s Gentle Assignment:

Write a short letter to your body.

No filters. Be honest. Be angry, be grateful, be confused—whatever you feel.

Start with “Dear Body…” and see what comes out.

Then, if you’re up for it, create something simple to represent your current relationship with your body:

– A color

– A shape

– A quick doodle

– A collage

– A single expressive brushstroke

It doesn’t have to be beautiful—it just has to be real.

Stay Creative My Friends 🧡

Michelle Joy Brown,

Your Artist Friend

© 2025 Michelle Joy Brown. All rights reserved.

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