Mirror Mirror

By Bernadine J. McIntosh

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's the fairest one of all? We've all wondered what other people see when they look at us. I know I did. When I was a teenager I struggled with my self-image. I though everyone's opinion of me was more important than my own. Thankfully I don't anymore. Now, if someone compliments me I say thank you. If there's something about me they don't like, well it's their opinion. I refuse to look at myself through the negative eyes of my critics and neither should you.

Yes, it is nice when people tell us how smart we are, how beautiful we look. But it's even better when we see it in ourselves. Hence, what I want to know is what do you think about you? What do you see when you look in the mirror? Do you see a beautiful face looking back at you? How do you feel about your accomplishments? What do you think your good qualities are?

Having a good self- concept is very important. Here are a few things you can do to help see yourself in a more positive light.

· Focus on your successes. Congratulate yourself when you do something right.

· Don't compare yourself to others. You are a unique individual unlike any other, be proud of that.

· Hang with friends who are positive. If you surround yourself with negative people you won't see the good in yourself or others.

· Don't label yourself negatively e.g. I'm so stupid, etc

If you truly believe that you are a beautiful person with good qualities it will show. When other people have something negative to say it will roll off like water off a duck's back.

Here's something to try saying every day.

I look in the mirror and what do I see? a beautiful princess staring back at me. Oh wow! I thought, who could that be, (then smile and say), oh! It's only me.
Also, say it until you believe it and then say it anyway!!!

Do you know what it means to be the apple of someone's eyes? Well you're the apple of God's eyes and he thinks you're simply the greatest! So hold your head up high girlfriend. The person who matters most in life thinks you're special!

Write in and share your thoughts on what makes you beautiful. Remember it's not only physical.
GT June/Aug 2001