by Treasa Lascola

Created on: August 15, 2009

"Pretty is as pretty does", is one of my Mama's favorite fair change with her two cents. She would hurl those words at me whenever I had most likely earned them. It didn't matter how well I applied my make-up, how stylishly my clothes suited my frame, or how well my shoes and accessories matched my clutch, bag, purse, etc... It is my actions that determine my staying power in the realm of "Beauty". And now, that is the most important lesson that I can pass on to my daughter!

Honestly, I can only try to extend this invaluable jewel of knowledge to the young women of my generation and beyond. In doing that, I can only hope that the women of my generation can take hold of their status as "Ladies", ( instead of "Hoes, Bitches,etc."), and pass it on to their daughters, as well. Now, don't get me wrong, being a vibrant, sexy woman is a wonderful way to live! Yet, speaking for myself, I can tell you that sexual prowess is not the only variable to define me by. I am so much more, as I'm sure are the rest of the women of the world are.

I am a daughter, a sister, a mother, a friend, a lover, a citizen, a poet, a philanthropist, a forgiving soul, a good tenant, a (paid) writer (come on now, I need the money!) ; a loving, spiritual, & grateful for everything I have, woman! Yet, I love to physically pamper myself, (as do, I'm sure, all of you), and there is nothing wrong with that, within reason. Because, if we make our outward appearance all that we are willing to put time and energy into, than we as the first teachers of our species, are doomed.

As I ponder this query, it occurs to me that as Mothers, we are considered beautiful as a given, by our children when they are loved, nurtured, and taught how to live, by us. Any child who has ever felt loved by their mother, would be hard-pressed to not tell you that their mother is the most beautiful woman in the world. Even mother Nature, is always depicted as a beyond gorgeous Goddess, wood nymph, faerie, etc, Not to mention, that car enthusiast typically name their priceless and artfully designed automobiles by female names and pronouns; example: " I swear, her engine sounds as good as she looks." If you look over your shoulder at the marina, there are countless boats named after women, and even some crafted into the shapely feminine shape. And, I can't help but, thank all of our servicemen who have named their aircraft in inspiration of their favorite female archetype!

In some cultures, women are considered too powerful during their "moon-time", to participate in ceremonies. Many civilizations around the world consider their elder female counterparts to be the most valuable members of their society. I have always felt celebrated, as a person, a female, a girl, a woman, an American woman, a good woman, a good daughter, a good sister, a good mother... And I hope that you do, too.

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