Our society has the tendency to express its views about everything known to man, and when those expressions are negatively geared toward body image it can damage one’s self-esteem.  As you know, I am grateful for our freedom to express ourselves – however, sometimes the use of that freedom discourages me. So, I want to encourage everyone to  protect and increase their self-esteem.

I realize there is no cookie-cutter answer to solve life’s issues. What works for you may not work for me and vice-versa. But, I think sharing experiences is a great method to help one another. You may not get the same results by doing what I’ve done, but it can inspire you to create a method of your own to overcome the same battle.

Those of you who have been following me are aware of how I struggled with self-esteem when I was younger and how I was able to overcome it. Even though I have come along way with improving my self-esteem, I think all areas in life can be improved and my self-confidence is included in that.

I find myself becoming more confident and more comfortable in my skin by each passing day. I can recall a time when I didn’t embrace my skin-tone, now I cannot imagine being anything other than chocolate. I also remember a time when I hid in layers of clothing out of fear of mockery because of my size. Even though I know there are people who will still find fault with my size 18 body – I am at a better place to handle it because I am accepting of myself.  I have been wearing clothing items that I had avoided in the past – specifically, sleeveless anything and shorts. I chose not to wear those articles because my thighs are thick and my arms are large – but, I realized not showing my arms or thighs doesn’t change their size. I will either embrace myself as I am or I won’t. I’m choosing to embrace Towanda. And these thick thighs looked pretty hot in those Bermuda shorts.

Earlier today I saw a photo on my news feed of paintings of nude full-figured women that made me feel even more entitled to say, “I am beautiful.” As I viewed the photo I literally said aloud, “That looks like me.” The women look comfortable and confident in their skin. They look beautiful – which, is how every person should feel no matter who they are.

I discovered that stepping out of my “comfort zone” enabled me to see my beauty at a deeper level. And I also saw the importance of connecting with like-minded people, it helps to move you closer to self-appreciation.

Bottom line – it is unfortunate that there will be people who will find fault with you no matter what you do. But, I ask you to push past the negative people and find those who are like you and urge you to love you as you are. We’re out here too.

Until the next time, be you and most importantly – love you.

Being uniquely you is being uniquely beautiful.

-B.B.