There were two things I was looking forward to getting last week: an Ankara African dress from House of Izzi I ordered from Etsy and the digital release of the movie “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.” We’ll get to the dress, but right now, I want to focus on the book and movie.

When I learned about the movie adaptation of the book by Judy Blume, I knew I wanted to check it out. I read the book during my early adolescence, so I thought it would be a good idea to revisit it before seeing the movie. Considering it has been over 30 years since I was ten years old, I’m not surprised that I can’t fully remember what I gleaned from the book when I read it as a child. However, I do wonder if I tried the bust increase chant, but I digress.

I enjoyed reading the story of “Margaret Simon” again. I was reminded of the struggles of being liked and accepted by my peers as a child. I recall wanting to be “normal” and “fit in.” Back then, I was unaware of how unnecessary and fruitless those mental pursuits were. In retrospect, I believe that is what Ms. Blume was trying to tell me.

Now, as a forty-something-year-old woman, I realize the same message applies. It is pointless to seek affirmation from others. It is true that compliments and praises are nice to hear, but they will fall on deaf ears if the person they’re directed toward doesn’t believe them for themselves. Additionally, if we rely on the words of others to make us feel good about ourselves, what will we do in those moments of seclusion when we need to be encouraged and uplifted—which is a great segue into what I drew from rereading Ms. Blume’s book.

The main takeaway I got from reading the book again—and seeing the movie—is to talk to God more. Every situation Margaret faced that concerned her in an excited joyful way or the things that caused her angst, she talked to God about it. There is a direct quote from the book that was used in the movie that resonated with me:

“You wouldn’t mind, would you God? I’d tell you all about it. And I won’t make any decisions without asking you first.”

Blume, Judy. Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.Bradbury Press.1970.

The quote reminded me of two scripture passages:

“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Proverbs 3:6 KJV

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

Isaiah 41:10 KJV

Despite the uncertainty Margaret faced, she sought and found comfort in talking to God. Furthermore, she continued to seek Him and His help even when things didn’t turn out the way she wanted them to. And although she waivered out of frustration, she returned to God in a posture of thanksgiving.

I was also able to garner some things from the movie that I didn’t ascertain from the book. The film reinforced the importance of being who we are and making our own decisions based on what we believe is the right thing to do. It also reminded me that our relationship with God is personal, which reminded me of another scripture:

“One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth evey day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.”

Romans 14:5 KJV

I cannot say for certain that Ms. Judy Blume or Ms. Kelly Fremon Craig intended to point out the themes I drew from their creations. Nevertheless, I am appreciative of what I was reminded. Maybe I should send them a tweet and inquire? I mean, I am an aspiring author and screenwriter, you know.

Now—the dress. I am very pleased with my recent Etsy purchase from House of Izzi. I am looking forward to rocking it and sharing some pics. I plan to wear it this week, God willing—stay tuned for the details.

Until the next time be you—and more importantly—love you.

Being uniquely you is being uniquely beautiful.

-B.B. 💋