Scar

As you may have figured out by now, we have daily struggles with Mya, and her anxieties, and OCD.  Every day, when I pick her up, I’m always drawn to her hands.  The reason being, every day, she had a new place where she’s picked or chewed.  I don’t think there’s a day in the week where we don’t have to apply Neosporin and a Band-Aid.  It has become a part of our life.

On Facebook, I recently posted some pictures from a themed photo shoot, where Mya was dressed as Scar, from the Lion King.  I knew she would want to be Scar, because any time she can get an opportunity to portray an animal, she’s all in. 

The other day, the photographer posted another of Mya’s pictures, and I immediately saved it to my files.  Since all of my family and friends don’t have Facebook, I always send out a bulk e-mail to include them in our day to day lives.

Here’s the picture that was most recently posted.

 

I immediately shared it, via e-mail, with those who aren’t on Facebook.  Never in a million years did I expect this response from my Aunt:

 “While other people will get caught up in how beautiful she is, the expression on her face, the look in her eyes, her fabulous hair, etc….

I was immediately drawn to her fingers.

How many people will notice how ‘worn’ her cuticles are?

To me, her fingers reveal more of the spirit of ‘Scar’ than the make-up on her face.

The struggles, the life and death situations, the toughness, are hidden behind the mask so beautifully painted and portrayed.

But, beneath the character in the photograph, lies a child who deals with the untold struggles of a child with an anxiety disorder.”

I have read it a million times, and haven't stopped thinking about it.  I couldn’t believe I wasn’t the only one that immediately noticed the places on her fingers.  Someone who can relate, who has lived it, and who understands the struggle.  While sad to think about, it was a breath of fresh air.  I’m not alone in this.  I have the love and support of so many.  And for that, I’m very thankful.

Later she responded again, with this:

“A scar is born out of weakness.

The delicate skin is torn.

It heals, from the inside out.

Almost impossible to tear, a scar is tougher than the original skin.

 

While others see the scar and realize that you’ve been hurt,

You can look at the scar and appreciate that you are stronger than you used to be!”

 

I’m in awe.