Beauty of a Woman

By Vanicsa Ford

Have you ever asked yourself what defines beauty, i know i have. But in the context of learning, I decided to look it up. And to no surprise, I wasn't shocked to discover seven different perspectives of a simple six letter word. 

The words on the page described beauty through the ideologies of: shape, color, intellect, visual enhancements, youth, privilege, and having an advantage of attractive features.

Therefore with that in mind, I was left to assume (which i hate doing, by the way) that perhaps this was the culprit of so many women's insecurities, self-doubt,  desire for approval, acceptance, and public gratification.

Somewhere along the way, I think we bought into the lie.

Somehow, we've embraced the public opinion and idea of beauty being an external allurment of attraction and glamor.

Need proof? Well, we (women) invest SO much time, effort, and energy into trying to fit the mold ("air quotes"); placing unnecessary stress, pressure and anxiety on our minds, body, and even finances trying to manage a mirage of external beautification rituals, routines, practices, and practices.

Sometimes, we stretch ourselves thin, trying to fit into the world's perception of beauty with our hair, nails, and make-up; believing that beauty is best displayed outwardly through a fashionable appearance. 

But the foundation of authentic beauty is actually 

contrary to popular belief! 

Genuine (authentic) beauty is easily recognizable by the character you display and sentiments of your heart.

So, as we celebrate International Women's Day let's encourage each other and build each other up as sisters, friends, wives, mothers, and amazing women; celebrating each other for who we are, and who we were created to be as:

●Nurturers 

●Problem Solvers

●Encouragers

●Prayer Wariors

●Fixer-uppers

●....caring & beautiful souls!

Before you get all dressed up to present yourself to the world for public display!

Let me be the first to remind you of who you are:

You are a three-part being in Spirit, Soul & Body (and yes, in that order)!

At the very core of your being, you are a bold, strong woman of beauty both inside and out,

....so dont you forget it!

Penned by Ms. Vanicsa R. Ford 

*a self-proclaimed woman of beauty, and then a: mindset coach, educator, entrepreneur, wife, daughter, sister, and friend