JenniferDyer.net

by Jennifer Dyer

out with the flannel...

The other day a writer friend sent out an email asking for marriage thoughts, specifically how wives can encourage their husbands.

I had to sit and think. Not about the issue I needed to work on, but whether or not I had the courage to share it.

As I have stated a few times, I have always had body image issues. In my early 20′s it resulted in an eating disorder. Though I no longer feel compelled to continue those destructive behaviors, I still struggle with my body image.

What does that have to do with my husband?

I’ll tell you… I put my own body image issues onto him. I assume he sees me the same way I see myself. I also assume he has the same ridiculous standards which I keep.

But none of that is true. Over and over I have seen studies that show men do not see the female figure in the same way a women does. They are wired to like curves, the same curves we spend hours every day trying to tame. I’m not saying we shouldn’t stay physically fit. Not at all. I’m only saying that most men seem to be more interested in attitude and willingness than the external qualities we scrutinize in the mirror.

So, while I would rather cover up with flannel and hide all the little extra bulges, hubby would rather I flaunt them–only to him, of course.

So, wives, join me in flaunting more, flanneling less.