The Body is like a Bedroom

2024

Porcelain, fabrics and textiles from women’s clothing, wood.

“What does womanhood mean to you?” my dear friend asked. She asked me because I speak so fondly of femininity, but to my surprise, the first word that came to mind was shame. 

Since my adolescence, I have been taught to be aware of how my body affects others. And since then, I have been subconsciously searching for how to reverse this learned burden of womanhood.

I used to mourn the years my younger selves lost. I perpetuated the cycle. It is not fair to the young woman just trying to navigate this unwarranted shame. All of those past versions of myself are a part of me, not a memory to mourn. 

I am sorry for all that I have put you through. I hope you can understand now.

I understand you. I forgive you. Can you forgive me too?

Yes. 

A bedroom is like a body. It can be a safe, comforting space, but also a vulnerable one, easily made hostile. My space has been hostile for too long.

This bedroom is a space of forgiveness.

A reminder to find comfort in the body that I call home.