ugly is the new pretty...

Observing. Is ugly the new pretty?

When you look in the mirror, what do you see? Do you zoom in on those little imperfections or do you recognize your key features? Like the scar on your check or a crooked front tooth, maybe it’s your full lips or long graceful neck that triggers the self-esteem meter in regards to being pretty. For many women, our outer physical image and attractive-ness is just as important as proper etiquette, culturally. How others view us, whether we like to admit it or not, has a lot to do with how we judge ourselves. Atleast until we reach a certain point of self-actualization and happiness.

Ask yourself this, how do you define ugly? Is it a skin tone or a body type? Is it the texture of hair or speech pattern? Is it a lack of education or parenting skill or is it the amount of money you spend on beauty products? Research indicates that we spend 7.5 billion[1] annually on make-up, scrubs, moisturizes, facials, implants, wigs and weaves, etc so we all desire to look pretty but what does it really mean? I ask this to those who have not developed a secure sense of self, their own identity as a productive working professional contributing to our society.

Being attractive to others may not be about what your face or body looks like but more of the beauty you project to the public. A positive attitude vs a grouchy sour puss for no logical reason, consistent healthy habits vs destructive patterns, establishing yourself and continuing education (on any level) vs having no substance, and most importantly, being spiritually connected vs lacking morals and self-respect. With all of that on the table, something has little to do with the style of your hair, the cost of your outfits, the way you talk, your choice of transportation or the neighborhood you reside in.

Now, this maybe a lone opinion of mine but instead of calling each other bitches, hoes and blaming the jump-offs for failed relationships, I would rather say, hello and tell you that I admire your accomplishment on your certificate, diploma or degree, your own business, your wedding anniversary, your child birth, you learning a new skill or new job or simply completing a personal goal. Ugly has more to do with negative and disrespect. With that in perspective, don’t be ugly. Pretty please enjoy your day.



References
[1] Black Folks, Consumerism and the Beauty Industry by Linda Harding-Bond