I've been reading a compilation of essays on beauty. When I heard about the book, Why I Don't Hide My Freckles Anymore, published by Deseret Book, I had a feeling I would like it. When I started reading it, I was sure I would like it.
As I laid in bed, reading the first few chapters, I could totally relate to the authors and I felt like I was learning from their experiences and perspectives. As I sat in the foyer of our church while Talia attended an activity, I had to close the book to stop the tears from flowing. There is so much in this world that teaches women to focus on outward appearances when it comes to their own beauty. I am very aware of that fact (especially with young girls to raise) and I thought that because I was aware of it, I was fairly beyond being affected by it. As I read though, I started to realize how much of a hold these incorrect perspectives still have on me.
Reading essay after essay, it was like sitting in a room full of women, discussing the experiences in each of their lives that shaped their perspectives on beauty and their opinions of themselves. And then hearing how each of them came to a point where they realized those perspectives were wrong, and managed to break through walls that they didn't even know were in their way. It was an emotional experience for me; witnessing these walls crashing down. I long to break through some of the walls of my own that remain.
Even more than that though, I want so badly to raise my girls with good perspectives on beauty. I felt like each of these stories helped me to see ways that I can do that. I enjoyed this book very much!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for review purposes from Deseret Book. All opinions expressed here are my very own.
Now I want to read it!
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