Austentacious Self

Almost everything that I learned about self-confidence, I learned from Elizabeth Bennett. I love how being second never dimishes her idea of who she is. She even exudes self-confidence in the face of adversity, Mr. Darcy.  I can relate.  She isn’t the most beautiful and she accepts that.  Beauty can be defined in so many ways.  I don’t consider myself beautiful in any classical way, but I think my toothy, full-cheeked smile, joyful personality, and effervescent presence define me.  I like that Elizabeth is intelligent and sensible, but that she doesn’t take herself so seriously.  She delights in the way that her sisters are individuals with whom she fits rather nicely.  Like Elizabeth, I do not want to be like anyone else–except a great literary character… maybe.  I laugh a lot.  I smile a lot.  I am loyal.  And, I find little offense in those who do not wish to be in my acquaintance.  On the other hand, I find it easy to speak with people, to smile in greeting, and to be considerate of their feelings.  I live and love in humor.  In that way, I suppose I am agreeable, wouldn’t you say?

My self-confidence has been four decades in the making.  It has taken time to know myself and to become comfortable with all aspects of me.  Time has taught me to be happy with who I am, to love myself dearly, and to adorn myself with great thought and words.  So, yes, I am like Elizabeth.  Sensible, well-read, quick-witted, and smart-mouthed.  Sweet, fierce, and stubborn.  Comfortable standing in the middle of a room, hidden in plain sight.  I am in harmony with my Austentacious self.

Harmony