by MariaofGA

Created on: June 27, 2009   Last Updated: July 02, 2009

I think that most people would agree that the mirror has distorted our view of ourselves and others. This sounds a bit like an oxymoron because a mirror is actually designed to give a true representation or description. I think the mirror is an enemy, but not without the allies of fashion magazines and television. Our society has been deceived by the images of beauty that we see in magazines and on television. These media images have created our perception of perfection which we all know doesn't exist. In my opinion, perfection is only an illusion. Anyone can achieve that look if they put on enough layers of clown make-up, fake hair, and throw in a bit of airbrushing and use of Photo Editor. Thus, these images are fake and easily debunked.

As babies, most of us were born fat and bald, and we were content. Today, we have kids as early as elementary school suffering from the damaging effects of a poor self-concept. They look in the mirror and yell "YUCK." They don't like what they see. They're not happy with their complexion, hair, or physique. If they have dark skin, they won't it lighter or whiter. If they have curly hair, they won't it straight. If they have short hair, they won't it longer. If they're short, they won't to be taller. Someone has told them that they're ugly, and they actually believe it. If we removed the mirrors from our homes, I'm almost sure that number of people suffering from anorexia, bulimia and other self-esteem issues would decline. Why have we been tricked into thinking that we are not beautiful just the way we are? Why do the media have such a powerful influence on our thoughts and behaviors? Why do we place so much emphasis on superficial traits? Why do we judge people by the characteristic that is supposed to be only skin deep?

What is your mirror telling you? When I look in the mirror, I am thankful for a beautiful, healthy complexion that doesn't need makeup. I am thankful for my fat cheeks which help me maintain a youthful appearance. I am thankful for my cocoa colored skin because it doesn't wrinkle as easily. I am thankful that I am short because I can easily get down on the level with the kids that I counsel. I am thankful for my hair because it is healthy, and I realize that all hair is good hair. However, I am most thankful for my big heart because it's given me the ability to show love, kindness, compassion and generosity to others; the only things that really matter in life.

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