Be Yourself

I often try to emulate the heroins in my favorite books or movies. For example, Lizzy Bennet inspires me to be strong- willed and skeptical of men. Anne of Green Gables inspires me to be dedicated and imaginative. I want to remain faithful to my one true love (Jesus) like Arwen was to Aragorn. There are countless heroins who encourage me to be independent, loyal, and creative.

Unfortunately, my respect for these characters is turning into something unhealthy. When I follow their standards for my life, I am discounting God's design. I blindly dictate my life according to a fictional character's mannerisms. I should submit my actions to my Creator, not to Elizabeth Bennet, Anne, or Arwen. What if I am to marry Mr. Collins instead of Darcy. (I am using this as a silly example, my desire to never marry is still very much alive.)

I can't live in someone else's shoes when they don't fit. They are giving me massive, painful blisters. I am beginning to realize that the skinny model is not the only oppressor of today's females. The fictional female with the delightful, flawless character is also oppressive.

My new desire is to uncover how God's see me. I am a unique vessel with a specific purpose. I want to guard myself, and I want to be unmoved by society's pressure and expectations. I want to enjoy the stories of my fictional role-models, but I want to refrian from becoming them.