As Told to PLUS Contributor, Michelle Renee

Doubt, fear and shame haunted me at a very young and tender age. Early traumas shaped my self-view while creating a 'disconnect' between my own body and me.  From childhood until my late twenties, I struggled with body image.
 
I was the slow, ugly duckling... tall, awkward with big breasts and large feet.... I attempted to hide my perceived imperfections from peers because repeated ridicule and being the butt of jokes was deeply painful...
 
In my late 20's, through a series of life changing events, a light flickered on in my mind and in my heart. A lifeline had been extended to me. I felt alive. Slowly, yet surely, I began to peel away those hardened protective layers to discover my God given curves.
 
What I know for sure is that every cell and curve of my body was magnificently and uniquely made... for a purpose.  I embrace and accentuate what I feel are my strong features and those not so strong features, I've learned to make peace with.
 
My journey is ongoing. There are moments when that old saboteur threatens to force me back into that deep dark hole of fear, shame and doubt. But I have learned to fight and stare the lies down. I know how far I've come and I am not going' back.
 
I am proud and thankful to be a warm blooded W-O-M-A-N... who is busty, curvy and tall. It is my intention to be an inspiration to all females who have struggled with accepting and learning to love their own curves. If I can heal and grow, they can too.
 
Learn to love the skin you're in, maximize your gifts and thrive.


Photo Credit: quainphoto.com