What "Me" Do You See?

My mother refers to herself as Beyonce. And honestly, Mrs. Knowles-Carter should hope to look as young as my mother when she's 50+. In the last few months, my mom has lost more than 50 pounds and her commitment and dedication to the task is awe-inspiring. But it got me to thinking, who do you see when you look in the mirror? What version of yourself do you see when you look at your reflection? Do you see the same person that everyone else sees?

I know that I don't. It's kind of funny. I suppose, for the majority of my life I've lived in bit of denial of my true self. Well, I don't necessarily know that it is a denial of my true self, if what others see is negative? Perhaps there is a level of self-perceptual indulgence that is ok and perhaps healthy. My mother grew up believing she had the legs of a statuesque model, when in fact she has a long torso and is only 5'7. But despite the occasional joke between the two of that, there was nothing wrong with her misguidedness.

The truth, more often than not is the ugly truth, that many of us are not able or prepared to deal with. To what extent should we consider or give credence to what other people to say about us? Most of us will readily accept the positive messages that we receive, but we shun the negative. But then there are those of us who will embrace the negative, and reject the positive, as seen is this video from TLC's What Not to Wear. This episode aired just two weeks ago, and it was quite a heavy almost heartbreaking thing to see. Sara, a 26 year old, with an athletic background who was completely unable to accept her body. For most participants, after getting their hair and make-up done, they step into their new and improved self with confidence. But even at Sara's reveal to family and friends, she seemed incredibly uncomfortable.

I know that the "me" I feel is not always a reality, but if that "me" helps me to walk a little taller and feel better about myself then I'm ok. Yes, when you look in the mirror, you should love who you are. But if today, I happen to feel a little taller and thinner, or my booty feels a little rounder; then Beyonce you better watch out!!

Merry Christmas!!!

Stay Stylish,
Tipper D.