The documentary we are watching in class is fantastic. I truly believe that women are misrepresented in media and in life. I, however, find myself having a hard time placing myself somewhere to stand on this spectrum. What is it I believe a women should/could/ought to do?
I went on the missreprestation website. Pretty cool. They have a clever campaign of #notbuyingit. They encourage people to, when they see adds that are straight up wrong, label it with the hashtag. I really like this, because now it is a thought. Every time I see something of women in the media, and I am like "Hey, that's not real." I can label it. Not only for everyone, but mostly for myself.
I find that I am very much wrapped up in what I look like. I have completely bought into the idea that I am only as powerful as I am good looking. I remember talking to my dad about future careers. He asked me what my dream job would be. I said, "a Sports Analyst." He told me I should go for it. I respond with a laugh. "Dad, I am not pretty enough. They don't want to look at me." Shame on me. When did I learn to believe that?
At this point in my life, I find myself married, happy... just great. I am, however, very aware of what I eat and how much I work out. I am thinner now than when I was in high school. I do that on purpose. I refused to gain weight after my marriage. I would not be "one of those." Who are "those people" anyway? And - who am I to judge? What is my driving motivation to be thin? To look good? My husband loves me. He thinks I am beautiful no matter what. Who am I trying to please?
As of today, I'm not buying it. I am going to be a parent someday. I will have children growing up with media everywhere all the time. I will be a part of the solution. How am I to teach my sons and daughters the value of people as people, as children of god, when I am wrapped up in how I look and how other people look? I can lead by example. I will not promote the idea that women's power come from what their bodies have to offer. And my sons will be taught to value people as people, not as objects.
I find that I am very much wrapped up in what I look like. I have completely bought into the idea that I am only as powerful as I am good looking. I remember talking to my dad about future careers. He asked me what my dream job would be. I said, "a Sports Analyst." He told me I should go for it. I respond with a laugh. "Dad, I am not pretty enough. They don't want to look at me." Shame on me. When did I learn to believe that?
At this point in my life, I find myself married, happy... just great. I am, however, very aware of what I eat and how much I work out. I am thinner now than when I was in high school. I do that on purpose. I refused to gain weight after my marriage. I would not be "one of those." Who are "those people" anyway? And - who am I to judge? What is my driving motivation to be thin? To look good? My husband loves me. He thinks I am beautiful no matter what. Who am I trying to please?
As of today, I'm not buying it. I am going to be a parent someday. I will have children growing up with media everywhere all the time. I will be a part of the solution. How am I to teach my sons and daughters the value of people as people, as children of god, when I am wrapped up in how I look and how other people look? I can lead by example. I will not promote the idea that women's power come from what their bodies have to offer. And my sons will be taught to value people as people, not as objects.
Saige, you are SO pretty!! I would totally watch you on ESPN or something!
ReplyDeleteVery Good Saige :) I hope that you have taken as much time telling yourself what you are...Talented! and Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteLoved this post. Its important to focus on inner beauty and WHY we are doing things for outward beauty. You are great!
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