Remember to smile (an excerpt from my upcoming book)

The most beautiful thing a woman can wear is her smile. Smile and have confidence in who you are. I’m not talking about the kind of confidence that comes from reaching a smaller dress size. I’m talking about the kind of confidence that bubbles from inside of you because you know you are worthy, loved and God’s beautiful masterpiece with unlimited potential. Sometimes there’s just nothing in the closet that’s doing it for you. Throw something on, take a deep breath, find gratitude and then throw on the biggest smile, heck paint it on if you have to. That’s your true beauty. Have you ever heard this scripture: “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” Luke 6:45 Have you ever seen a gorgeous woman who didn’t seem to know how to smile or be nice or talk with kindness and grace? Or one who looks down when someone speaks to her? It’s very unattractive and a little sad. Or have you encountered an average looking woman who bubbles over with happiness, kindness, confidence and something that you can’t quite put your finger on? I think that secret quality is authenticity. Gosh, she’s so attractive and just draws people to herself! Even though it’s so tempting don’t allow yourself to get caught up in the superficial. It’s a never ending trap. The trends are constantly changing and you’re always going to find yourself behind the eight ball. I’m not against beauty products or procedures I’m just saying it’s not lasting. You’ll be a lot better off if you just decide to radically love yourself and put your best foot forward with confidence and authenticity. “For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes seek out the good in people. For a slim figure share your food with the hungry. For beautiful hair let a child run their hands through it once a day. For poise, walk with the knowledge that you’ll never walk alone.” Aubrey Hepburn

Here are some things I personally find beautiful about a woman:

Good posture, good health or battling for good health such as a cancer warrior or anyone trying to be better, happiness, joy in the midst of trials, strength both inner and outer, flexibility both in your muscles and in your attitude, energy, vitality, friendliness, open mindedness, acceptance, warmth, kindness, loving yourself enough to set boundaries and say, “no”, glowing skin from body hydration, wrinkles from smiling and experiencing life, patience, gray hair, a chipped manicure from spending time with your grandkids, a curvaceous body, a straight body, confidence, peace and owning it all.