Beautiful and Healthy

I presented to my youth group of girls tonight at the church a lesson on how to recognize and cherish "real beauty". It's a subject that means a lot to me, and I hope I was able to pass on some true ideas that will help them.  

We discussed a lot of important ideas, and then we made a craft together:  I had them decorate large paper hearts, and on the back we glued a little list of what we decided helps bring out true beauty.  I told them to keep it in their dresser drawer so that they can discover it often, and re-read the list for years to come, so that they can always remember how beautiful they are!  Here is the message we glued on the back of their hearts:


 

BEAUTIFUL AND HEALTHY

That’s what I am!

1. I think nice thoughts about myself.
2. I don’t talk badly about myself in my mind. 
3. I don’t say negative things out loud that are critical of my body, or anyone else’s body.
4. I know that magazine cover pictures aren’t always true to life!
5. I “fight for fitness!”  I set goals to keep myself active.
6. I compliment others on their beautiful character traits, not just how they look.
7. I know that there are other important things to think about besides how I look, such as being kind, doing well in school, helping others, and choosing the right.
8. I believe in serving others, which helps me feel good about myself.
9. I am picky with what media ideas I view and accept.  I choose media that values women for their talents and personality, and that present women in real-life ways.  I reject and run away from media messages that show women in inappropriate and unrealistic ways.
10. I promise to set a good example for others by not being critical of myself or of others.
11. I know that being beautiful and healthy means more than just how I look!

Here's me with one of the most beautiful people in my world, my Grandma Limb!

 Here's to all of the truly beautiful people in this world who inspire us!

P.S.  I also shared a quote from the following talk, and gave copies of it to the girls that were interested in reading it to pass off a requirement for their Faith in God program.  It's a great talk for all women!  It's called "To Young Women", by Elder Jeffrey Holland.