Beauty...

What makes a woman beautiful? Her body, her eyes, her hair, her clothes, her personality?  What is it that makes a woman pretty?

If we look at magazines, the "ideal" beauty for a woman is 5'8 and a size 2.  These women have lusterous hair, perfect skin and no flaws.  As you and I both know, very few of these women actually exist in the world outside of photoshopped photos in glossy magazines.  So if these women don't really exist, then why are these women what are society views as beautiful? 

As a fuller figured woman (polite way of saying fat) I am far from the "ideal".  I have carried two beautiful children in my belly and I have battle scars (stretchmarks) to show for it. 

I have a love of food.  All food.  And while I am not a glutton, I am not one to turn down a bite of something interesting or yummy.

I am not an exercise fiend.  This is something I am trying to get better at, not to reach an ideal of beauty but for my health.  I want to see my children grow up.   And eventually hold my grandchildren.

While I am not "ideal" I am hardly homely and/or ugly.  I take care of myself.  I wear nice clothes and style my hair.  SO why am I not considered beautiful by today's standards? 

I am caring and loving.  I love my friends and family fiercely and without fail.  I am an active and contributing member of society.  I am raising my children to be caring and conscious of others feelings.  I am a wife who is loyal to her husband.  I try to make a home for my family that is loving and supporting. But despite all of these attributes, I am not a size 6.  So therefore, by today's "ideal" I am not beautiful.  And neither are any of my wonderful friends and fellow mommies who don't fit the mold. 

What is wrong with our society?  What is happening? 

Beauty comes from within.  Outward beauty fades away.  It can be taken in the snap of a finger.  Just ask a women who has been scarred in a car accident.  But the beauty that matters, is the beauty that never fades, stretches or disappears.  It is the beauty found in a woman's heart.  It may not be ideal....but it is real.