"Stop hating yourself for everything you aren't and start loving yourself for everything you already are." Unknown

When I was a kid, I didn't care about what I looked like. I was a tomboy that never brushed her hair, hardly ever wore shoes, and definitely did not know how to match my clothing. I had scars all over my legs from running into things and unfortunate mishaps on the playground. But none of that mattered, because scars and wounds were something you could be proud of in first grade. Everyone was interested in hearing the story and would respond with gasps or looks of wonder. There were other people who also had crazy hair and couldn't match, so how I looked and acted was relatively normal.

The older I get, the more flaws I pick out in my appearance. My front teeth aren't perfectly in line. My thighs have cellulite dimpling on them. My stomach has rolls. I have love handles. My hair is too thin. My eyebrows are usually a little out of control.

After I get through the list of my external issues, I start to think about what's wrong on the inside. I'm insecure. I am not assertive, and I let people walk all over me. I love people that will never reciprocate the feeling. I'm a major people pleaser. I get nervous about potential scenarios that will likely never happen to me. I'm afraid that people will make fun of me if I say something dumb.

I am imperfect. And that's okay.

That is what makes me beautiful.

I am also strong, brave and loyal. I am a great friend to have on your side, because I will do anything for you. I will laugh at your jokes, even if they aren't funny, because I want you to feel validated while others won't validate me. I'm a hard worker. I will go above and beyond to make sure someone else doesn't have to do a job that I'm capable of finishing. I am a great listener. No matter what the issue is, I will listen and do my best to offer advice. I am caring almost to a fault. Even if my biggest enemies come to me with a problem, I will be the shoulder to cry on and a person to help them out in the situation. I am always smiling. If I pass someone that looks like they've had an awful day, I will always say hello and smile.

Through the years, there have been many people that have tried to steal my happiness. Thankfully, they didn't succeed because I have since realized my self worth. My identity is rooted in Christ, and He made me in His image. My thighs, thin hair, insecurities, strength and bravery all come together to form and individual that has a great and perfect plan made for them.

You were also made this way. Society has put an unrealistic standard on what you should look and act like. I want you to know that you're perfect. Look at yourself in the mirror and be grateful that you were made this way, because even if you don't know it, there are people that love you, need you, and look up to you. And before you can love them back, you must first love yourself.