Posting those photos on social media sometimes feels like an obligation, a way to remind the community that disabled people are beautiful, that we share similar challenges. But if I’m honest, I often feel like a fraud. That’s part of why I’m writing this letter: to correct the narrative. Because if I’m working on neutrality, maybe someone else can too. Maybe someone else can find a little relief in knowing that they don’t have to leap straight to self-love. Sometimes neutrality is enough.

To other disabled people reading this: if you struggle with your body, I see you. If you’ve tried to love yourself and it feels impossible, I’m right there with you. If you’re just aiming for a place where you don’t hate yourself, let’s aim for that together. Because self-love isn’t the only destination. Sometimes acceptance, even tentative acceptance, is more than enough. And you deserve that.

Here’s to finding peace, one day at a time. As our lord and saviour, Taylor Swift, says in her song This Is Me Trying, I’m doing my best. And if it’s good enough for Taylor, it’s good enough for me.

Yours (begrudgingly, but working on it),

Emma

“A letter to my body, which I’ve resented for too long and am finally ready to accept”