R.A.D.I.C.A.L. Thoughts

"The best beauty product is to have a life. A real life. With challenges, disappointments, stress, and laughter."
From The Art of Imperfection by Veronique Vienne

I love that little book called The Art of Imperfection. The section from which the above quote is taken is entitled, "The Art of Looking Like Yourself." I care about how I look. We all should. We should take care of our bodies, eat the right food, exercise, take baths regularly, wear clean clothes, smell fresh and laugh. But I think when we are more excited about what we're contributing to the good of the world and less concerned about how perfectly put together or stylish we are, our natural beauty naturally shines. When we don't have time for lots of makeup and perfectly coiffed hair because we're building a Habitat for Humanity house or we're totally engrossed in a new project of our own, or are fully engaged in our own worthwhile endeavors, we're appealing, attractive and exciting anyway. So, like Veronique points out, if you want to be beautiful in the way that really matters, get a life! And realize that in real life there will be disappointments, setbacks and even occasional wild sobbing. But there will also be lots of joy and fun and laughter. The wisest man in the world, Solomon, understood that concept, too. His statement about living in the Fear-of-God is not about being afraid. It's knowing that God has a grand plan for us, and deciding to find that plan and live it and celebrate it whether we have on the latest trendy outfit or the perfect shade of lipstick or not!

"Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God. Give her everything she deserves! Festoon her life with praises!
Proverbs 31:30-31