The Face In The Window
by: Arleen M. Kaptur
]Everyone has had the experience of passing a storefront
and seeing their image in the glass window. From a dis-
tance, we usually are very impressed with how we look,
We just might pat down a stray hair or straighten out our
collar, but for the most part, everyone is a-okay.
The result of a "close" encounter, however, is totally
different. There right before our eyes, we can see the
age lines, the imperfections and the little details that so
displease our image of ourselves. Even when we listen to
our own voices on a tape recorder, we are usually not
thrilled.
In deep South America there was a tribe of native indians.
When they saw themselves for the first time on film, they
laughed and totally were amused. They were not disappointed,
but found it funny - just plain and simple funny. So, what is
the basic difference here besides culture? These native
indians did not have preconceived notions about how they
looked in their minds - they accepted what they saw as the
truth and nothing else. Without picturing something to the
contrary, they were pleased and it really did not make a
difference to their own self-image. They went back home just
as happy as when they first arrived. Nothing was missing and
so they did not feel dejected or leave with a bruised ego.
We usually judge ourselves by the standards others have,
not our own. If fashion dictates thin - then thin we must be.
If curly hair is the mode, then our straight locks displease us
and we find fault with our appearance. Those of us who are
assured within themselves that they are who they believe they
are - then the vision in a mirror fits like a puzzle piece. They
do not expect more or less - they are who they are and that is
the total picture.
How do you achieve such a self-picture? It does not come
overnight but it is an integral part of peace of mind. Accepting
the person beind the image is the start. Not all of us have
computer genius minds. We muddle with the machine and do
our best. The secret here is to accept that premise, attempt to
improve, but do not fall into despair because it doesn't come.
There are artists in all fields whose attempts are just this side of
brilliant. That's fine - stick people drawings, and home-made
holiday decorations are also part and parcel of life. We do and
so we are. If every attempt is our best effort, then we are extra-
ordinary in our own space in life. There should be pride and only
the expectation that tomorrow will bring new opportunities and
challenges. As for our physical appearance, our hair style is just
right for our lifestyle and our clothes are what we choose because
it is our choice. Simple but hard to swallow when others seem to
be where we are not.
When you pass that glass window and see your reflection, step a
bit closer. Right there - that is a person who is unique and makes
the world a better place. Their worth is not measured by current
standards - it is not diminished because of any slight imperfections.
The worth in those eyes and in that smile are perfect. It is the way
it is suppose to be at this moment and this place. We couldn't ask
for anything different - and if we did - then we are just deceiving
ourselves and will walk away from that window with heads hung low
and our spirit dragging like a shadow behind us.
Celebrate who and where you are at every moment in life and you
will never fear tomorrow or seeing yourself close up. That's what life
truly is and isn't it wonderful?
©Arleen M.Kaptur
July, 2007
About the Author
Arleen M. Kaptur has written numerous articles for magazines and newspapers. Her latest book will be out in 2008.
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