Vanity

What is it about needing to feel good about the way you look all the time? Why is it I can't accept the things that aren't "pretty" or "appealing" about me in public? Why do I always have to feel like I need to cover up the bad stuff so that I can feel good about the way I look in public?

I do worry that this is part of the "perfectionism" that I am trying, quite desperately, to get under control. Knowing I'm not perfect with my skin hanging a little under my arms, I wear long sleeves and roll them up to my elbow so that nobody notices the flapping of my arms. Is this all because I don't feel Perfect or that striving to be perfect that I can never achieve again? I am so totally unsure of this one, completely out of left field.

I won't wear Bermuda shorts without tights. Kind of negates the reason for getting into "cooler" clothing than real pants, doesn't it? But yet, I can't seem to like or get myself to accept the flaws and wear the Bermuda shorts or even the Capri style. I tried, really I did, but I just couldn't do it.

And don't get me started about make-up and going out in public! Why is it when I know I need to be somewhere, I have to dress "to the 9's" (always loved that adage) and make sure to "put my best face on" (that one too!) even though I realize, who do I need to impress? Why is it that I continue to feel the need to feel great about the progression of my body?

I was recently told that Europeans don't have the same issues with weight, clothing (appropriate for size) and all that jargon when they go out in public. I have seen things from other countries that leads me to believe that is the case as well. Is it just in the US that people have this feeling like me? I can't see wearing skimpy or revealing clothing to show things I don't even want to look at to people I don't even know! Well, it appears there are plenty of places in the world where people don't seem to care...and that does include the US as well...just not as much I think.

Is it vanity or just caring about how you look when you go out in public? Where exactly does vanity fall into play? What is the real definition of Vanity?

1. excessive pride in one's appearance, qualities, abilities, achievements, etc.; character or quality of being vain; conceit
2. an instance or display of this quality or feeling.
3. something about which one is vain.
4. lack of real value; hollowness; worthlessness: the vanity of a selfish life.
5. something worthless, trivial, or pointless.

What exactly constitutes "excessive"? I don't think wanting to look good and covering up your flaws will qualify so WHEW! I am so glad I solved that mystery, at least I think so...

Where does pride in appearance change into Vanity and when is it really Vanity and not pride? I guess we all have our own opinions of that very delicate balance, what is yours?

Thanks for listening...