Expressions of Exuberant Women

Beauty is Enough

Jennifer Brammer

Judging myself is such hard work, yet comes so easily. Why is it so much easier to look in a mirror and think critical thoughts about myself that I wouldn't say to another out loud...I'm too fat, too freckled, my hair isn't thick or curly enough, I have a crooked smile...I'm not smart enough, strong enough, talented enough, successful enough....ENOUGH! Let the insanity of insecurity stop!

Isn't is harder to look at ourselves and each other and admire our beauty? When is the last time you looked in a mirror and gushed in equisite thoughts about your utter gorgeousness? Why is is awkward to say to a fellow female that she is stunning, glowing, perfect?

Let's take the time today to find a flaw and tranform it into a fabulous feature. I have a soft belly, and whenever I go to the gym and see those sexy six pack stomachs, I feel a little deflated. Yet in another moment, I am watching a bellydancing performance and am thrilled that I have womanly hips and a magnificent mid-section!

Beauty depends on what you give attention to. Take the moment to revel in your luscious life, the uniqueness that is you, and give a gratuitous compliment to yourself and also to the women sitting next to you on the bus, the cashier in the grocery store, the friend who just ended a relationship, an aunt, mother, sister, grandmother... Remind her that she is more than enough, and that, in itself, is beautiful.

A Joy Without Limits

Jennifer Brammer

Who is the most joyous person you have come across today? The other day I was walking down a dirty street, my thoughts grey with grumblings of some mundane drama I was repeatedly uselessly in my mind. My mood was becoming fouler as I replayed the perceived injustice, indulging in self-sympathy. I made eye contact with no one as I pushed through the crowded streets of Chinatown.

Then I tuned in to the sound of a jazzy beat bursting from around the corner, growing in its groove as I approached. A young man was playing a keyboard on the sidewalk, hovering over the keys and banging out a merry tune as he rocked back and forth. He shined with enthusiasm, his smile sparkling so widely it caught me by surprise. I paused in my steps, taking in this stranger who instantly became the best part of my day.

This man, without arms, was playing the piano. This man, without legs, was dancing in the streets. He looked up at me and told me I had a beautiful smile. I laughed at his flirtation, wildly attracted to his life-force, his exuberance. Moving along, I wondered who I could aspire to inspire with irrational joy? What a wonderful mission.

Is there any good reason for you not to be the most joyous person on any street corner or in any room you find yourself in today? Exuberance is pushing the limits of your gratitude and enthusiasm for life, finding your joy in the most unexpected places and being your truth, whatever form it comes in. Play on.