Updated: Dec. 1, 2024
Originally Published: July 26, 2013
I hate to break it to you, but there’s a troubling trend unfolding, and it’s largely our own doing.
As a society, we seem to have collectively decided that the definition of what it means to be a girl needs a makeover. This isn’t the issue at hand; in fact, it’s a positive and essential shift. Today’s girls will grow up surrounded by images and language that portray them as Brave, Strong, Smart, and Independent. Finally!
The real concern, however, is that in the process of reshaping this new “Girl Power” narrative, the term “Beautiful” has somehow become a taboo.
I’ve come across numerous blog posts and articles recently suggesting that calling a girl “beautiful” is akin to an insult. I even read an “open letter” from a mother asking her neighbors to stop complimenting her daughter’s hair. Another mother claimed she wouldn’t call her daughter beautiful, opting instead to shower her with praise that doesn’t touch on her physical appearance, fearing it might lead to arrogance or insecurity in her child.
In an interview with The Daily Chronicle, a women’s advocate, Lisa Thompson, urged parents to refrain from calling their daughters beautiful, arguing that this sends the message that looks are paramount. Even a well-known model, Bella Grace, has joined the fray, stating that she prefers her daughter to be called “intelligent” rather than “beautiful,” as she wishes her to aspire to more than just modeling. Grace believes we should “encourage girls to aim for the presidency.”
Okay, I get it. Of course, I want my daughter to know she can pursue any career she dreams of, including the presidency. But what’s wrong with being both smart and beautiful?
Listen up, everyone: We’ve taken this Girl Power movement to a point where it feels excessive. By “we,” I mean “you,” because I tell my daughter she’s beautiful no less than a thousand times a day (more or less).
My daughter is stunning, just like the daughters of those mothers mentioned above. And because I want my beautiful girl to always believe in her beauty, I tell her—often. I’ll continue to do so until my words resonate in her heart, helping her recognize the inherent beauty that is uniquely hers. She is so much more than just a pretty face, but that face? It’s gorgeous.
I also tell her daily that she is kind, talented, generous, clever, bright, sensitive, and has an incredible sense of humor (even at two! She cracks her brothers up with the mere mention of silly things). She is compassionate, loving, Brave, Strong, Smart, and Independent. I will keep celebrating her many virtues daily so that she understands that all facets of her—inside and out—are valued amidst the chaos of daily life.
When I call my daughter beautiful, I’m acknowledging her natural beauty. I don’t put makeup on my 2-year-old and rave about her lashes or cheekbones. I don’t style her hair and gush about her lovely curls. I don’t zoom in on her eyes and swoon over their color. When I say she’s beautiful, I mean that she is stunning, even with her bedhead, mismatched clothes, and dirt-smudged face. Because she truly is, as any proud parent would attest.
Shouldn’t childhood be the prime time to tell girls and boys, loudly and clearly, how beautiful they are? Before they start comparing themselves to the unrealistic images plastered on magazine covers? Before they hear about eyelash curlers and push-up bras? Before they receive a rude comment from a jealous peer? Before they start seeking validation from social media likes?
Now is the moment. I will call my daughter beautiful. I will beam at her when a kindly stranger at the store calls her a “Pretty Little Lady.” I’ll nod along when the clerk gushes, “Aren’t you just adorable?!” And I will remind her daily that every part of her—her mind, heart, spirit, and body—is beautiful, just as she is and however she chooses to express herself.
Telling my daughter she is beautiful won’t limit her in any way, and I refuse to let the internet sway my belief otherwise.
In this spirit, if you’re interested in exploring more about home insemination options, check out this informative blog post on home insemination kits. For those looking to enhance their knowledge, this resource on IVF is excellent. And if you’re curious about at-home fertility boosters, take a look here.
In summary, I believe it’s crucial to embrace and celebrate the beauty in our children while simultaneously empowering them to recognize their worth beyond aesthetics.
Keyphrase: Celebrating Beauty in Children
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]