It's been a while since I've posted a Wardrobe Wednesday. In the beginning, it was mostly about showing off how much money I'd saved on some really cute clothes. But to be honest, I always felt a little awkward posing for the photos and more than self-conscious posting them for the whole of the interwebs. I did discover, however, that there is a voice inside of me with something important to say about beauty. Perhaps I'll let Wardrobe Wednesday continue to morph into something new and explore this more in the future. For now, though, I only have this one more thought on the subject.
I am not beautiful like you. I am beautiful like me.
The words are easy to understand. It's a simple concept. But how many women actually believe those words? It is something I have struggled with all my life. And it's no wonder. Let me illustrate.
The other day, I received my June issue of American Baby. {Missing something? Me too. I have no idea why I keep getting this magazine. Or coupons for Huggies. Or invitations to come see the latest retirement community, or issues of The Reader's Digest or Yachting Magazine. It must be someone's twisted idea of a joke.} I glanced at the cover and thought, pretty baby, as I set it down.
As I went about my business, my mind roved over her features. Wow, I thought. Her hair sure is tidy. My kids' hair was never that neat. I wonder what they had to do to get it to stay that way? My thoughts continued, Her skin is so pretty. I'll bet it is soft. That hint of a blush in her cheeks is just perfect. And I love that color of lip gloss she has on. [record scratch] ... Lip gloss? Babies don't wear lip gloss! I picked the magazine back up and examined it more closely. Either this baby is wearing makeup or she's been airbrushed. Here's a close-up so you can judge for yourself.
Makeup? Airbrush? A combination of both? Whatever the case, this baby did not need it. Shame on the editors of this magazine for doing it. And shame on that baby's mother for allowing it to happen.
It makes me angry.
And it makes me wonder. How do we get the message out that no one can live up to an impossibly unattainable standard of beauty and we don't want it shoved down our throats anymore. Theodore Roosevelt had it right when he said,
comparison is the thief of joy.
4 comments:
A totally agree with you Elizabeth. Babies dont need lip gloss. That's appalling.
Im trying harder to work on my inner beauty because I've never been what the world would consider to be "beautiful" . Its an impossible standard we set for ourselves.
Finally in my mid 40's Im starting to accept who I am . Its liberating!
I love the last image/poster. It is a timely reminder, as I pondered this recently, having looked through photos taken on Monday while fighting the impulse to be self-critical. Haven't I gotten over that? Apparently, not really.
You couldn't be more right!
love love LOVE this post!!
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