Growing up I had long, beautiful, strong and thick hair (thanks to my Mom). She made sure it was combed, put under protective styles for longer periods and taken care of. As a young African girl growing up in the 21st Century bombarded by the media, I fell into the trap that light skin with weaves was more beautiful. Since I had one of those (light skin), I felt that because of my natural hair, I wasn't beautiful enough and needed weaves to "complete me". I looked in the mirror one day and I didn't see the beauty in myself through my hair. So the decision was made, and I cut my hair.
I had no idea the implications that followed. I started putting my hair under intense heat, intense regular relaxing and less in protective styles. The longest I lasted with protective styles was a month of which every time I took the style off, I relaxed my hair. I loved seeing my hair even more straight (not thick) and getting approval from people I don't even remember.
What I didn't know (or had no idea of) was the damage I was causing to my hair until I started noticing the lack in growth, weakness and breakage. I knew something was wrong but I couldn't put my finger to it. It took me 15 years to realize the beauty in myself and to be strongly convicted that I'm Beautiful (#naturalbeauty). My beauty comes from within and permeates through my skin, hair and character. I don't need approval from anyone telling/explaining to me what my beauty is.
I am a strong African woman, born from a rich culture of love and respect. Fearfully and wonderfully made by GOD to be as HE intended me to be. Nothing on me is a mistake, not my hair, not my skin color nor my character. I am who HE says I am, made for HIS honor and glory. I AM WOMAN.
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