Yesterday, I was preparing for a family dinner, a small occasion that I always looked forward to. As I sat in front of the mirror applying my makeup, my daughter-in-law walked in. She looked at me with a dismissive expression and said, “Oh, you look pathetic trying to cover up your wrinkles. At your age, you should stop pretending to be something you’re not.”
Her words stung more than I expected. I had always found joy in adding a touch of color to my life and face, believing it was a personal choice that made me feel good. But her comment left me feeling self-conscious and uncertain.
I shared my feelings with my husband. His advice was simple and clear: “Ignore her and continue doing what makes you happy.” Yet, despite his support, I couldn’t shake off the feeling of inadequacy. Her harsh words made me question whether I should change my ways to align with her opinions or stay true to myself.
As I reflected on the situation, I began to see that her comment was more about her own perceptions than a reflection of who I am. The lesson here is about self-worth and respect. Each person has their own way of embracing life and expressing their individuality. My makeup was not about hiding who I am but about celebrating my own choices and making myself feel good.
Lessons Learned:
Self-Worth is Personal: True self-worth comes from within and is not defined by others’ opinions. It’s important to stay true to what makes you feel confident and happy, regardless of external judgments.
Respect Others’ Choices: Everyone has different ways of expressing themselves. What might seem unnecessary or superficial to one person can be deeply meaningful to another. Respecting these differences enriches our relationships.
Embrace Your Own Journey: At any stage in life, embracing your own style and choices is a form of self-love. Whether it’s makeup, fashion, or hobbies, doing what makes you feel good is a celebration of who you are.
Communicate and Reflect: If someone’s comments affect you, it’s valuable to reflect on them and communicate openly if needed. However, the ultimate decision should always align with what feels right for you personally.
In the end, I decided to continue wearing makeup, not because of defiance, but because it’s part of what makes me feel good about myself. Embracing my own journey and choices allows me to live with authenticity and joy, regardless of others’ opinions.
Every individual deserves the freedom to make choices that enhance their own sense of well-being. By respecting ourselves and others, we foster an environment where everyone can feel valued and understood. Embrace what makes you happy and stay true to your own path.
