"Liken yourself to a beautiful original part of creation -- a true work of art. Then each day ask yourself how you are living: either in ways that show gratitude for this beauty or in ways that indicate how you are defacing it."

-- Robert J. Wicks

Hi!

I have a confession to make: I've become hooked on the TV show, 'What Not to Wear.' For those of you who don't have access to this show, it's a make-over program. In each episode, two fashion gurus from New York guide a woman who has no sense of how to best present herself to transform into a true beauty.

When I first heard of the program, I was wary of an approach that seemingly shunned an woman's personal expression and imposed a socially-appropriate look on her. But now that I've watched the show many times, it's clear that the transformation they spark goes far deeper than superficial dressing. In fact, they draw out the woman's unique presence.

I'm entranced watching these women fall in love with themselves! Most of them start from a place of doing their best to be invisible. They give little care to their appearance, often because they're so critical of themselves. When they finally see themselves for the beauties they are, they really step into their personal power. Radiating with self confidence, they light up the world.

For me, this program showcases the power of inner beauty. The new clothes, make-up and hair styles would have little effect without the blossoming self-appreciation.

We're always radiant when we believe in ourselves. So, altogether now, let's take up a new, empowering mantra: "I am beautiful!"

~ Patrice

"I am so beautiful, sometimes people weep when they see me. And it has nothing to do with what I look like really, it is just that I gave myself the power to say that I am beautiful, and if I could do that, maybe there is hope for them too. And the great divide between the beautiful and the ugly will cease to be. Because we are all what we choose."

-- Margaret Cho

"Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart."

-- Kahlil Gibran

P.S. The forum is coming -- I promise. I'm just so slow at learning these things!