As Christina Aguilera passionately sings her iconic anthem on television, “You’re BEAUTIFUL…in every single way…” I can’t help but feel her gaze directed at me. “No matter what they sayyy…” she continues, and I’m left wondering: Am I truly beautiful, no matter what “they” say? I can’t help but think of the mirrors scattered throughout my home and the critical voices swirling in my mind.
Several years ago, I watched helplessly as the fresh glow of my youth slipped away, leaving behind a landscape of sagging skin and unwelcome wrinkles. The elasticity of my skin, particularly around my eyes, reached its limit and seemed to declare a full-scale revolt against my efforts to smooth things over.
Since turning 45, my wrinkles have seemed to multiply overnight, despite the “anti-aging” creams I diligently apply. Each morning, I find myself counting (and naming) the little creases radiating from the corners of my eyes, resembling rays of sunshine. Yet, unlike the radiant sun, these lines are not celebrated; they are merely reminders of aging. I’ve jokingly taken to calling my face a “wrinkle farm.” But at least I can take pride in knowing that my wrinkles are entirely organic.
And what about my body? Well, despite my best efforts to tone and shape it, I could easily fill a bakery with references to baked goods—muffin tops, sweet rolls, and the like. My body has become a collection of soft and delicious metaphors. There’s humor in the way I envision my super-sucker undergarments, tirelessly trying to contain what feels like a tidal wave of change. The construction is sturdy, but there’s always a hint of anxiety about how long it can hold up.
If I were to view myself solely through the lens of my body and face, I would have to answer Christina’s question with a resounding “No.” However, as I grow older, I realize my worth extends far beyond mere appearances. Beneath the surface, other beautiful dimensions of me are waiting to shine. While I appreciate Christina’s incredible vocal talent, I’d prefer to pause her song for a moment as I make my point.
What truly matters are the qualities of my mind and soul. My mind is a vibrant masterpiece, a Jackson Pollock painting filled with creativity, love, and endless possibilities. It bursts with energy and kindness, yet it has also simplified over time, shedding unnecessary complications. I now understand what resonates with me, making my mind more beautiful than ever.
As for my soul, it has transformed. No longer seeking to harm itself or feeling restless, it has found calm amidst life’s storms. Having faced numerous challenges, my soul has matured and blossomed into a more beautiful version of itself. I can imagine it portrayed by a talented actress like Sandra Bullock, capturing its essence perfectly.
While the mirrors and inner critics may continue to evaluate my exterior, I must remind myself that they do not define my beauty. I am vibrant, healthy, and full of life – and that, above all, makes me beautiful, in both mind and soul, regardless of the opinions that surround me.
So as I navigate this journey through life, I’ll embrace the music of my existence—beautiful, resilient, and unapologetically me.
Summary
This reflection on beauty challenges conventional standards by emphasizing the importance of inner qualities over physical appearance. As the author ages, she recognizes that her true worth lies in her mind and soul rather than in the wrinkles and imperfections that society often criticizes. By focusing on personal growth and self-acceptance, she underscores the idea that beauty is multifaceted and should be celebrated in all its forms.