Short stuff, small package, hellooo down there! Oh, the names I’ve been called. People might think I don’t like being short but I’ve always loved it. At 4’11 & 1/2” I probably feel closer to the earth and more centered than the average-heighted gal.

In elementary school I often got to be line leader, in the front row for pictures and down center stage for dance recitals. In later years I never worried about whether to wear heels or not for a date because they were never shorter than I. And as a performer I was cast in fun character parts; leprechaun, air fairy, court jester with a puppet in my hand.

I have to admit there are downsides too. It’s hard to reach top shelves. But that’s what step stools are for. People still call me cute instead of beautiful like my tall model sister. I guess cute is better than ugly though. In gym class I was alway the last to be picked for a team. I didn’t like to play sports anyway.

Now that I’m older I’m probably shrinking in height. This could go either way, good or bad. I might as well just appreciate that I can touch my toes with ease in yoga. Also if I ever fall and can’t get up chances are I won’t break my hip because I won’t have far to go. But in the meantime I’ll stand as tall as possible, walk erect and smile happy to have the body God gave me.