I think everyone should be told they’re beautiful until they believe it. – Unknown
I just finished watching a story on 60 Minutes about Gospel For Teens, a program in Harlem, NY. The program was started to make sure that gospel is taught to the next generation and doesn’t become a lost form – that is why it was started. Over time it has become something so much more.
It has become a way for these teens to find and build self confidence. The theme song that all students have to learn is called, “Don’t let anyone tell you that you are anything less than beautiful.”
These amazing young people learn to stand up and sing their hearts out and shout to the rooftops that they are amazing, joyful, talented kids no matter the difficulties in their lives. Their personal stories were a great reminder that my difficulties seem small in comparison. When we become so focused on our own troubles we can tend to forget that there are always others worse off then us but that no matter anyone’s individual troubles, we all need to be reminded that we are all ok just as we are. I just want to remind you to believe you are beautiful. Because, you most certainly are.
Until tomorrow.
Jenna
Day 332 was created in acrylics, watercolor, and graphite.
This is my most favorite of your apples! Of course, I have said that many times over the last 332 days.. Wonderful message too.. Beautiful, for sure.. WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!
Michael,
You don’t know what it means for you be here on my blog 🙂 I love you too and I’m so excited you will be in NYC for the big event!
xoxoxoxoxox
Jen
Stll fighting to learn that myself, having a brother who told me I was ugly in what felt like everyday of my childhood. Struggling to feel anything positive right now thru the pain and extreme fatigue. Having nothing to distract me from my pain and listlessness without electricity due to Irene certainly hasn’t helped. Looking forward to it going back on as soon as possibl e. I miss my old, positive self and want to find her again, asap! lol
I always remind myself that so many others are so worse off in their circumstances. And I agree, we all are beautiful in our own way. Not to mention your lovely apples. They bring joy to me and countless others! What am I gonna do when your apple creations stop coming after day 365?! lol
P.S. Gospel is one of the most beautiful, uplifting sounds on this earth. It’s right up there with children laughing and chipmunks chirping! 😀
How do we do this? It is the hardest thing ever. I see the extra pounds, I see the blemishes that still pop up at 42, I see the gray roots, I see my posture in photos. These things that eat away at all of us. I’m trying to learn how to be kinder to myself but it’s a difficult course and I’m currently getting about a C-!
Hang in there my friend – I see your beautiful spirit – you will find that old, positive self. I have no doubt.
Brothers can be mean – I know, ask my sister!
Hold on Melissa. It breaks my heart to hear you. Jen felt like it sounds like you do a few years ago. Hold on.