In The Mirror

In this world filled with narrow notions of beauty and success we must learn to dismantle the idea of what is "normal" and try to unconditionally love the person looking back at us in the mirror. I have struggled with personal acceptance for much of my life, with both my physical impairments and certain personality traits of mine. It has been a long road learning to love the person I am and there are miles to go. Self acceptance is a challenge we all face in one form or another throughout our lives; some struggle more than others but we all have things we do not like about ourselves. 

Sometimes the people who seem to have it all together, are actually silently battling personal insecurities on a daily basis. A startling number of young people, typically characterized as self absorbed, struggle to accept who they are. Some of the kindest people, who are filled with so much compassion for others, sometimes do not love themselves. There are times where our greatest enemy can dwell between our own two ears. We can be our own biggest critics, calling to attention every perceived imperfection. Self improvement is important but we must not let it consume us. When we become overcritical of ourselves, it can leave us wishing we were another person. When I personally feel this way I am reminded of the words of Kurt Cobain, "Wanting to be someone else is a waste of who you are." We may not always be able control how we feel about ourselves; I do however, believe that each of us can affect certain destructive paths of thought. It is important that we treat ourselves how we would want to be treated. I believe the "Golden rule" should apply to everyone, including ourselves.

I also feel that many of the negative ways people tend to see themselves, are actually internalized expectations set by society. When it comes to things like weight, physical ability, mental capacity, romantic interests, race, gender or economic standing, we are commonly shown a "default" existence, with any differences presented as "extra" or even wrong. The idea of a "normal person" is so limiting and destructive for those who do not fit within its definition. I strongly believe representation is the key; to love ourselves, we must first see ourselves. It is imperative that popular media reflects a wider view of humanity. It breaks my heart knowing that people, many of whom are so young, are sent the message by our culture that they are not wanted. Diversity is not imperfection, it is beauty. I can confidently say, each person who reads my blog is beautiful and important.
For all those who need to be reminded, you matter.
For all those who feel weak, you are powerful.
For all those who feel alone, you are loved.
For everyone out there struggling to feel accepted or accept themselves, I truly believe in you.