Self Acceptance

As I was reading the internet "hot topics" this morning, a title caught my eye. "Create a beautiful image for women over 50," it read. Never having been one bothered by disclosing my age or laugh lines, I eagerly clicked the link in my quest to capture illusive beauty.

As the film clip began a reasonably attractive woman in her mid to late fifties was shown without make-up, her hair pulled back from her face. As the camera zoomed in (much too close for comfort) it made me feel proud of my little facial whiskers! Since the point of the film was to demonstrate make-up application, why-oh-why didn't they edit that portion of the film? It's bad enough that once you hit forty every make-up artist thinks you need to hide all lines and wrinkles, must they close in on every millimeter of imperfection?

Sorry, I got a little indignant there... I'll continue. I do have to say that after the foundation application the model's skin looked flawless! I was impressed with the final appearance of the eye cosmetics, although I thought the use of five to six different colors was excessive. And the eyebrows, holy cow! If you know me, you know I've had a lifetime of eyebrow woes. This artist was great on the eyebrows, but then the model actually had some to work with.

On to the cheeks and lips. The cheeks weren't demonstrated any differently than when we were younger. Highlighter on top, darker under the cheekbone. The lips looked nice when complete, especially after the artist applied a heavy coat of lip liner. "To accentuate the lip edge," which apparently disappears around the age of forty, I learned. I didn't know my lip edge disappeared - I guess I missed that part of aging. I do know that as I age my lipstick forms funny vertical lines that appear lash-like after a short period of time. Chapstick is now my preferred color.

After watching this minute long demonstration of how to create lasting beauty, I ask... What about accepting ourselves as we are? I happen to like my wrinkles, they define my life. The lines around my mouth show the great laughter I've enjoyed. The crows feet lining my eyes tell of the time enjoyed outdoors. And the frown lines between my brows (what there is of them) demonstrate thoughtful contemplation.

Is there room for improvement? Oh, yes! Am I willing to accentuate the positive? You betcha! Will I take the time to pluck and tweeze before accentuating my outer beauty? Each and every day. I suppose all these chores come with age, but each day I age I acknowledge I'm fine just the way I am.

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