I don’t know about anybody else but I’ve gotten used to wearing my mask. Even with the maskne and all the other frustrations that come along with it. Masking my laughs and facial expressions...it works for me!
Recently...when there are moments that I don’t have my mask on, I’ve gotten compliments on my beauty, how clear my skin is and those types of things. My response is usually one acknowledging the work it has done to get my skin clear or pointing out my imperfections, instead of simply saying thank you. Not taking my great skin days for granted but having gotten used to being “hidden” it can be a bit uncomfortable. This made me think of how I present without the mask on. On a normal day, I don’t wear makeup and When I want to be extra I do.
Let’s Parallel this to everyday life.
We can get so comfortable with being invisible. That comfort comes from a place of not wanting people to know we are struggling, not wanting to be seen for the possible mess we are or simply not wanting people to be in our business. So we cover up. We cover up with makeup, clothes, a forced smile and some simply retreat completely going into their secluded spaces not to be seen.
I have been here. For me it’s the smile. Most would never know when I have something going on in my life. Why? Because I mask it with a smile. But is that really conducive to our own personal growth? I don’t think so.
When all people see is the mask you wear...they don’t get the full essence of the beauty you are.
To all who mourn in Israel,
he will give a crown of beauty for ashes,
a joyous blessing instead of mourning,
festive praise instead of despair.
In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks
that the Lord has planted for his own glory.
Isaiah 61:3
We are all walking billboards of God’s grace, mercy, favor, redemption, forgiveness and love. Why would we want to cover that up. Even in the ugliest times in our lives. It takes more work and pressure trying to keep it all together, hold it all in, than it does to release...to just be.
Life gets ugly. The pimple doesn’t go away until the infection has been cleared. This doesn’t happen when you cover it up. You have to let it breathe. Treat it with something that may not be that comfortable...I know...what a gross analogy. But I can almost bet you have a gross spot in your life. Nothing heals completely when it is constantly covered by a bandaid.
So when we try and cover our flaws, experiences, grief, disappointment...the only thing we are doing is delaying the healing process. The world won’t embrace you until you do. More than that, we should remember that we are always in the embrace of our heavenly father.
He will cover you with his feathers.
He will shelter you with his wings.
His faithful promises are your armor and protection
Psalms 91:4
Comments