This week's prompt has stirred up one of the most beautiful memories that I hold close to my heart, and it's a memory of my path to self-realization.
I got involved in a beauty contest in my third year of college. We were scheduled to lodge in a hotel for a week, providing us with sufficient time for a thorough rehearsal before the contest's main event.
Filled with an intense passion for pageantry and brimming with excitement, I journeyed to the hotel and then I discovered I was the last contestant to arrive.
I was assigned one of the rooms occupied by three other girls, so cozy and spacious. We were meant to be roommates for the brief duration of our stay.
I felt so overwhelmingly happy in ways words couldn't capture. It was a delightful opportunity for me to mingle and make new friends.
Without further ado, I introduced myself. "Hi! I'm Vera. I'm pleased to be here with you all," I said.
"Hello! I'm Nathalie, and I'm pleased to meet you," replied the first girl.
"Hi! I'm Christiana, but you can leave it at Tiana for short," the second girl chuckled, exposing her beautiful dimples.
"Hello!" the third girl waved.
"Sorry, I didn't get to know your name," I reminded.
"I'm Irene," she abruptly replied, giving out a forced smile.
This was going to be a competition, so I didn't expect much. I was determined to have fun, broaden my horizon and smile big.
In no time, Irene's attitude became a constant perturbation to my emotions. I became the only one she had a repugnance for.
Sometimes, when we were out at the field for the catwalk practice, she'd smirk and mutter downy words at me unnoticed each time it was my turn to lead on with the walk.
Getting so exhausted from the activities of the day, I walked into the room to freshen up, and at that moment, Irene realized it was the best time to make me perceive myself as less significant.
"Some people just have a weird way of catwalking. I couldn't control my laughter this morning, I was immensely cracked up," she said.
"How about me, Irene? Did I try?" Christiana asked.
"Of course, you did so well. You too, Nath, only that you have to improve on your smiles," She replied.
"Vera! You tried, but you were dancing and swinging your hands too much. Try and do it the right way, and it would be better," she continued.
I didn't ask for her opinion, but she made it her business. Instantly, self-doubt crept into my thoughts as her demeaning remark that belittled my abilities echoed in my mind, making me wish I could just vanish.
Later that day, the trio left to other rooms to chitchat with their friends, and I'd remained behind to regain my composure. Suddenly it clicked, THE MIRROR.
There was a big, immovable mirror mounted on the wall that reflected every detail in perfect symmetry.
I swiftly slid my feet into my heels, gazing at the reflection in the mirror, and admiring the mirrored realm that captured the essence of my undeniable splendor. Amidst my worries, I could see through the inner intricacies of my being, the glow, the radiance, and the elegance were all perfect.
Then I confidently strutted in front of the mirror, mesmerized by the graceful sway of my body that resembled that of a supermodel. I effortlessly swung my hands in synchrony, adding to the rhythm of my catwalk, and that was superb. But then I wondered, how on earth was I overdoing it?
A day was picked from the rest for an all-white party for all contestants. I felt so elated and I'd looked forward to it. It was a chance for me to mingle with other contestants, and so I'd really prepared for it.
The party day dawned, and I was enchantingly adorned in a white glittering gown that poised my elegance, and I had my face beautifully touched with makeup. The trio looked pretty too as I gazed at their outfits.
"OMG! You look so stunning in that outfit. I love your dress." Tiana gestured.
"I love the glitters, it's so beautiful," Nath added.
"Thank you so much. You both look adorable too, and I'm sure we're going to make a memorable night."
"Your dress is okay, but it has too many shimmers and your makeup is way too much." Irene cut in.
"I didn't ask for your opinion, so save it." I snapped out.
I would say I'd gained so much confidence in myself, my abilities, and my esteem. The mirror had shown me the perfect reflection of my true worth, so I couldn't be talked down on or made light of anymore.
A day prior to the big day, I'd taken a walk to get some air, and walking back in, I overheard halfway the conversation Irene had over the phone with her sister in the bathroom.
"I have all my costumes intact and everything is perfect, I feel I'm ready. Do you remember that girl I told you about? Yeah, Vera, she's my biggest challenge. She's so good and I hate to say it."
I was left aghast. There, I understood why she's been so bipolar. And when I thought only the mirror could see through me, I never realized she could see through me too.
Nevertheless, she couldn't make it to the semi-finals, but I made it to the finals.
Meeting her again as were about to depart, I walked up to her. "Hello, Irene! You're very unique, discover that in yourself while appreciating and loving the uniqueness of others. Meanwhile, I'll miss you." I said, giving her the warmest hug, and without holding back, she hugged me too.
Thanks so much for reading.
