Just because I love beauty products doesn’t automatically mean I’m vain or frivolous or that I presume that I somehow look better, have better skin, better hair, etc. than anyone else. I know I don’t. Just as someone in fashion isn’t always the best dressed or an interior designer doesn’t have the most beautiful home. Nor do I believe that you HAVE to wear make-up or own a bathroom full of beauty products to be beautiful. I am a true believer that beauty comes from within and I get that these things aren’t necessary to have a happy & fulfilling life.
Yes beauty can be frivolous & self indulgent, as can a lot of people’s interests & passions. I love beautiful things just as someone may love art, interior design, jewelry or fashion. If you think about it, most hobbies and interests are inherently self-indulgent. We pursue these things because they are interesting to us and make us happy. If there are gains for other people than that is a bonus but often not the reason we do it. To judge someone for how they spend their free time is just that...judgmental, but typically hypocritical.
Often hobbies & interests cost money, and spending money to pursue these interests doesn’t make someone irresponsible. Beauty doesn’t define me; it is only one component of who I am. I am caring & generous to the people in my life, and also continually strive to find ways to give back to my community and the world in general. I am not even sure why I felt the need to justify this but there it is.
I feel better now, thanks for listening.
Sorry to hear about the mixed words from others on your blog topics...I guess that's what we as bloggers get for putting our lives out there for others to read. Even fitness, like I blog about and am passionate about, can easily turn into a thing of vanity when the scales are (figuratively) tipped in the wrong direction. That balance between beauty (with fitness or makeup or good beauty buys) and vanity can be a hard one to achieve, especially with the messages out there that I think do influence us as women in our culture. Good, thoughtful, honest words; thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the thoughtful words Bonnie, it means a lot and I truly appreciate the support.
ReplyDeleteTracy, I'm so sorry and very surprised to hear that your blog has had mixed reactions. I don't think that caring about how you look and making an effort to look good are shallow since if you look good, you feel better about yourself. I also appreciate your honest opinions on beauty products since there's nothing shallow about wanting to know where to get the best value for your money. Please keep it up and don't let a few others negative opinions sway you, I think you've got a great blog!
ReplyDeleteThanks Laurel, your advice & encouragement means so much. I appreciate all you have done for all of us!
ReplyDeleteReading your posts, you come across to my like someone who is fun and enjoys her interests- beauty is just one of them. Life is short- do what you love and never mind the critics. Looking forward to keeping up with your blog.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your comments Zoe, great advice. Thanks for the feedback.
ReplyDeleteI think what makes a blog interesting is honesty and the sharing of your experiences (good, bad or indifferent). Part of that is exposing who we are to the world. Negativity and critisism may come your way but only from those who have their own hangups. Keep 'em coming my friend.
ReplyDeleteAw Michelle. Such kind and thoughtful words, thank you so much. I appreciate the support and encouragement!
ReplyDeleteMy pleasure Tracy, it's been very fun for me seeing everyone's blogs, which are looking fantastic!
ReplyDeleteDon't let people get you down. Some people feel the anonymity of the internet gives them the right to spread negativity without repercussions. If they aren't interested in the things you are, they can find something else to read...Now, on an entirely shallow note--WE WANT THAT PINK VANITY! ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks ladies it's great advice. I think I'll have to work on that thick skin thing.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes isn't that vanity to.die.for ;)
Well said Tracy! Thanks for introducing me to your blog and thanks for stopping by mine (rhythmofliving) While I love positive feedback from friends and family, the negative opinions are just irrelevant to me! It is more of diary for me, therefore all thoughts are my own. Don't apologize for liking what you like, and being who you are! The criticizers could probably benefit from a similar outlet themselves. I personally love your posts and don't find them vain at all. Keep up 'em coming!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much. I was just admiring your JLH pictures this morning. Your style choices are very similar to mine! I don't have the coastal scents palettes...yet. Can you believe?
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