Yesterday on Facebook I ran across this picture.  Of course, this struck close to home, for I am always struggling with the muscle man in the mirror.

It is not uncommon for us NOT to see ourselves as we truly are.  We all look at the world through our own filter, and amazingly, this is also true–even when looking into a mirror.  Logic says that we would be seeing a true reflection of what we look like, but our own filter and context can make looking in the mirror a very different experience.

I know that some days I look in the mirror and feel like Antoine Valliant, pro bodybuilder!  Other days I look in the mirror and see that little skinny kid from 7th grade that hated being such a weak little shrimp.  And I suppose some days I actually see myself.

Either way, this variance in my perception can be exhausting and get in the way of living my life happily.  I have to often stop and remind myself that I am working hard. have accomplished much, and am NOT still that little scared child from my past.  I know he's in there, part of who I am, but that is not my reality any more, nor is that my reality in the mirror.  So always remember to keep some perspective, and be patient on those days when reality is not right in front of you.