When I was growing up I was the ugly duckling amongst my five beautiful sisters. I suffered from lots of bullying, from outsiders, because of that. Even though I was considered ugly, I did not let that bother me. When I turned 18 the same people who bullied me said that I was finally a beauty, and again treated me differently based on my appearance. Because I was shy and introspective, I knew all along that I was good inside, and being ugly or beautiful did not make a difference or change my attitude, and especially in front of the mirror.
It was then that it became clear to me that mirrors are simply a tool used for dressing up, and that the hedonistic part of society will always favor beauty. My only true reflection comes from within. I have always been me and always will be!
Reflections play such a large role in our lives. There is an old Lost in Space episode that I watched as a teenager called, “The Magic Mirror”, about a boy trapped in Mirrorland who refuses to grow-up. I believe that many people over 50 feel the pressure to trap themselves in Mirrorland, refusing to ever grow-old — a fear-based sentiment of denial!
When I turned 50 in 2008, I began to notice the turmoils that women reaching 50 were going through. Of course, much of it included their reflection in the mirror. I realized that all along I had a very “KIND” mirror. It was (and is) an internal, non-judgmental one that mainly reflects smiles and a zest for life.
I have accepted myself at every age, and my mirror has always been kind to me because of it.
I believe that when one is over 50, one must find new ways to look into one’s own mirror and find the wonder that is there to behold! Look at yourself. Don’t be afraid to look in your mirror, and reflect upon the beauty that lies within. Your internal reflection will enhance your attitude, and you will see that your reflection is truly ageless!
Put down your old mirror and pick up a KIND one! One that sees you as ageless!
Join the “Kind Mirror” movement! What beauty is reflected in yours?
