Body Language

In regards to my post on Charlotte Church, Liz posted the following comment.

Just because the outward, physical appearance of a person has changed, is no indication that their inner heart - their soul, if you like - has changed at all, still less that it has been damaged or is any the less pure.

Since thoughts similar to Liz's may be on other minds, I thought I would re-post my reply here:

Dear Liz,

On the contrary, because our bodies and souls are not two seperate indentities but intimately connected, forming our whole person, we cannot separate one from the other. We have been created physical, tangible beings, both body and soul united - and thus a change in one often reflects a change in the other.

Think of someone who is discouraged or depressed. Such a person's struggles typically show in their appearance, whether neglected, weary, or careless. The very fact of how we are made means that outward appearance is a constant self-description. A person's self-esteem, confidence, dignity, attitude, emotions...and yes, even their inner heart, can be -- and almost always is -- reflected in their physical appearance. As the great St. Francis of Assisi once said: "Preach always; when necessary use words." Every moment, whether we know it or not, we are saying something about who we are and what we believe...just by how we present ourselves. Body language is indeed powerful!

Thanks for reading my blog.

Yours in Christ,
Claire