I'm sure you've been told the importance of difference. Maybe you've said it to someone else - 'be unique' or 'be yourself'. It's common knowledge how dull our world would be if we were all the same. Yet... isn't that what we so desperately attempt to achieve on a daily basis - to be as similar as possible just to blend in? To cover what we perceive as flaws, to stay 'on trend' so that ultimately we are accepted. Already we are going against what so many of us preach.
Our societies actions speak a million words. We learn that standing out from a crowd earns snide remarks and curious stares. 'Don't be different', we say, 'don't stand out'. Actions speak louder than words. Each day we believe in the value of our differences less and less. We are left asking 'am I enough?'. We are left questioning whether or not we truly fit in by being who we're are.
No wonder young people are so preoccupied with appearances. They doubt themselves and doubt their worth as they are forced to recognize everything that sets them apart from the world around. The differences that, actually, do matter. The differences that do matter, but shouldn't.
Trends come and go, with each one a new insecurity is created. We fixate on the flaws we're told we have. A few years ago, freckles were something to cover up. Now it's fashionable to apply fake ones. Body types come in and out of fashion magazines. A poppy can't become a daisy. It's the same for people - they cannot simply morph into whatever body type is trending. Even if they try to; by dieting, working out, gaining weight, losing weight... that's exhausting. Not to mention how disheartening it feels to always be battling to change who you naturally are. Constantly, we have to squeeze ourselves in different molds. And if you can't? The endless toll on your confidence will hold you a prisoner within yourself.
Trends come and go. You do not.
Labels are not only draped over clothes items in shops but also across the people wearing them. Petite, plus size, tall; everyone feels the need to have an opinion on a persons shape or size, the lower the number the higher the praise. We aren't numbers, nor should we ever be defined by them. Perfect fits everybody differently.
Lift others up instead of tearing them down. Celebrate self-expression. Everybody has so many brand new ideas, unique to them and their own minds. This in itself is so important. Everyone should be able to express these ideas without fear of judgement. There's too much people have to offer that's being thrown away because they feel they aren't good enough.
In valuing self love and self-respect, you show the world that only you can define you. Most importantly, you pave the way for others to be able to do the same.
