I was enjoying some kid-free time with a friend the other day. We had an uninterrupted conversation over coffee and bagels and moved on to an even bigger treat, shopping.
We walked happy and relaxed through the spacious, brightly lit aisles that were lined with fancy beauty products and items that promised healthy, gorgeous hair.
We sniffed floral and citrus perfumes and sampled rich lotions. We were in beauty heaven with every new spring product calling to us from the shelves, “Try me.”
I spotted a skin care line that was next to the make-up my friend was looking at. Before long, we each had a product in our hands.
I showed her the cream that I was holding. “This is supposed to be amazing for wrinkles,” I told her.
She asked me why I wanted it. She studied my face and told me that I didn’t have any wrinkles.
I asked her what she was buying. She showed me a tube of mascara. “I have read that this has dramatic results in lengthening lashes. I hope it will work on the five that I have.”
I laughed at her comment and looked carefully at her face. “There is nothing wrong with your lashes. They look fine.”
I didn’t buy the wrinkle cream and left the store wondering why we both saw each other differently than we saw ourselves. Why is it so hard to see yourself like others do?
When you look in the mirror what do you see? For many women it is not always their good features that stand out.
If you only notice the bulge around your midsection or the tired creases around your eyes, you are not focusing on things that keep you feeling positive.
Sometimes it is hard to remember that a smile and positive attitude can make you look better than the clothes you wear or make-up that you apply.
There is always room for improvement, always the opportunity for growth. But so many women are critical of themselves and self-conscious about things that don’t even occur to those around them.
How many times have you heard a friend complain about something about their body and you think they are crazy? Too many times.
A few years ago, I was getting ready to go out with my family for dinner. I wasn’t feeling satisfied with how I looked in the mirror.
My waist looked wider than it used to be. My hair was straight and flat.
Did I have anything else to wear? Anything more flattering?
I pressed my lips together rubbing in the crimson lipstick as I looked at the reflection of the woman that I couldn’t stop judging.
I was so busy noticing what I thought looked wrong that I was startled when a little arm clasped onto my leg and swung around to look into the mirror with me.
Two little eyes locked with mine and then I heard a tiny voice say, “You look pretty, Mom.” I hugged my little boy and reached for my shoes, ready to go.
It only took four magic words to transform my appearance.
Two people looking at the same thing can see things very differently.
Edited by Jody Smith