Appreciate the Artwork

Photo By: Farhan Abas https://unsplash.com/@farhanabas

I stared into the mirror and took notice of the artwork that lay before me. I took a moment to be moved by the strokes of depth and meaning that marked my face. I am proud that I never felt tempted to manipulate my natural beauty with products that promised an illusion of perfection, I gave myself care when care was required. I love what I have and the processes that I went through. 

I looked at the creases between my brows remembering the moments of despair and wonderment that chiseled those lines throughout my life. It is a sign of my awareness and ability to concentrate. Noticing the lines and puffs  under my eyes, I am reminded of the tears that fell in despair, happiness and laughter. Though sometimes an indication of my need to rest, I admire the marks as proof of the life I lived, filled with adventures and flavors. 

Smiling at the memories, my attention shifted to the lines defined on my cheeks that are definitely there from the many smiles within my lifetime. The proof of my various interactions and the reminder of the abundance to appreciate every day. 

How could I erase the depth and meaning that I have met in my lifetime? What would looking perfect do but veil the lessons and memories that I hold within? Why hide the beauty and perfection that already exist?

In Life, we get caught in the illusion that perfection will prove our worth and we forget to notice the beauty that lies before us because we have judged it as imperfect. Whether we are old or young, strokes of beauty are constantly being added and it is our choice in what to believe that determines what they mean. Reflect on who you are and what you've been through instead of judging yourself to chase the illusion of perfection you have created. Love yourself and every proof of your greatness, continue being the best version of who you are!