To my younger self…
You’ll spend years wearing shoes that fit awkwardly snug around the toe box and think “these are perfect, they’re exactly what I need.” For years your Mom, your Ates, and your Titas will compliment your small feet, making you think “I am special because of the shoes I walk in.” All you remember is “enjoy your feet while you can, they’ll grow three sizes by the time you have kids.” So naturally, I dressed to impress by wearing the tiny size 6 shoe.
It wasn’t until I became a nurse and endured constant foot pain that I realized: “Perhaps… I should try a different pair of shoes.” It may seem like common sense to most people, but hey, you’ll learn eventually.
So, invest in a good pair of shoes, not only physically, but also metaphorically. It’s easy to get caught up in pleasing other people, but remember you can say “no” and put yourself first from time to time. Also, you should take more time “walking a mile” in someone else’s shoes. Have empathy to the point of understanding another person, but not to the point of burning yourself out.
If there was a chance to do it all again, these are the three things you should do:
- Go to any assorted shoe store like DSW or Footlocker.
- Pick a shoe you like.
- Try every shoe size for that shoe size possible.
You would be surprised. After much trial and error, I figured out I had wide feet ranging from sizes 7 to 8.5. It is liberating to be able to let go of what I thought was “right” and embrace my body as it is, flaws and all.
Also, please, for the love of all things sweet, let go of your prejudice against Crocs. All those years ago, your Dad was onto something after all. You make fun of him then, but you are now the proud owner of 5 pairs of Crocs that make your feet walk with glee. What can I say? Turns out you inherited his feet.
-lechefran
