Many women struggle with insecurities about their appearance. Recently, one woman's experience went viral after she posted online looking for advice. The poor girl admitted that she used to look like a "10" but now feels like Shrek. Her candid vulnerability quickly backfired, sparking debate on beauty standards.
This "Shrek girl" explained that she was considered gorgeous as a kid and young adult but started gaining weight and battling acne at 28. Turns into Shrek, as she says. She now sees herself as a "4" on good days but usually a "0." The woman shared that she relies on makeup to look pretty in photos, hiding her blemished skin and asks for advice.
While excited for a date, she felt insecure and wanted advice on being confident. Commenters crucified her instead, telling her to lose weight and see a dermatologist. Some even said she seemed "mentally unstable".
The Shrek girl defensively replied that the commenters weren't actually helping by stating the obvious. She argued that losing weight or clearing her skin wouldn't make her confident for this date.
Many users piled on, attacking her for being vain and unable to take criticism. One said she had "princess syndrome." The woman kept trying to explain her insecurity wasn't about quick fixes but finding self-acceptance. Still, people continued advising her to change herself, insisting therapy could "fix her issues."
This exchange reveals major problems in how our society views women. Firstly, the intense focus on female looks perpetuates the notion that beauty defines a woman's value. Secondly, the callous response to this woman's vulnerability shows little empathy for women's struggles.
When they admit flaws, they're shamed instead of supported
Society holds women to unrealistic standards, then vilifies them for feeling insecure. Women face immense pressure to be effortlessly beautiful. When they admit flaws, they're shamed instead of supported.
This woman's experience represents a broader cultural sickness. Her insecurity touched a nerve because many women can relate. We must shift perspective to empower women.
The response to this woman reveals an ugly truth - society can be cruel to those deemed unattractive. Though beauty is subjective, popular standards label some as beautiful and others as ugly ducklings. For women, physical appearance becomes intertwined with self-worth.
This woman's experience perfectly illustrates the impossible standards women face. She was cherished as a pretty child but derided as an adult for normal changes. We've created a world where a woman's looks eclipse her humanity. Paying such attention to superficial traits like silky hair, a button nose, or flawless skin prevents us from seeing the whole person. We become blind to kindness, humor, intellect, and spirit.
In focusing so much on this woman's looks, commenters missed the chance to offer real friendship. They could have reassured her thattrue beauty, like true love, can always see beyond the surface. With support from patient friends, not judgment from strangers, this woman could have gained perspective. She could have seen herself through loving eyes, not as an ugly ogre like Shrek but as a beautiful soul finding her way.
Beauty has worth, but so do character, wisdom and kindness. Rather than telling women to change themselves, we should help them feel worthy beyond appearance. With compassion and understanding, we can create a society where every woman feels comfortable in her own skin.
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