I went to get my hair cut yesterday and chatted with a lady named Ivy. We talked and talked while waiting, as there were many people ahead of us. We talked about things that had been on my mind, and she didn’t even know me. How ironic. Ivy has been a Christian for many years. When it was my turn, the hairdresser had me sit in the chair and put the cape around my neck. She didn’t know I couldn’t breathe through my mouth or nose, but she did realize it. So, I held the cape up to my chin so I could breathe. Then she tells me bend my head forward. Oh Geeze. I did it I could still breathe. So, I remembered what Ivy said. In the good times and bad God is in the midst of us. Then I remembered what my mom would say: Sometimes it hurts to be beautiful, and you have to deal with it. But God always invites a quiet, reverent pause of peace.

Read this verse slowly, then sit in silence for one minute.

Song of Solomon 4:7 ESV: You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you.

You are altogether beautiful. Poetic celebration of belovedness and wholeness; useful for reflecting on relational and affirmed beauty that goes beyond surface traits.

Repeat the line “I am seen, I am held” three times.

Beloved Father God, You, who make us whole, breathe Your peace into the places I hide. Remind me I am seen, I am held, I am altogether beautiful in Your sight. Heal what is fractured, steady what is anxious, and teach me to receive love as freely as You give it. Let my heart answer with gratitude and my life reflect Your kindness. Love You, thank You, praise You and give You all the honor and glory in Jesus Precious Name Amen.

Name one small way you felt loved today and let that memory rest in your chest for a full breath.