Reflections represent an original. The reflections of our mind recall past events, images and experiences. The reflection of water, mirrors or metallic surfaces project an image through a filter of light and surface. The reflection of character, behaviours and achievements provide insight to the inner person.

The quality of the reflection depends strongly on the clarity of the surface being used to produce the reflection.

Looking for a reflection of our self-worth and value from another person is like looking into a cracked mirror in order to access our appearance. Hurting souls can reflect brokenness and pain. Therefore, allowing our self-worth and value to depend on the perception others reflect back to us is unhealthy. When someone we love treats us in an unloving way for prolonged amounts of time, there is a tendency to view ourselves as unlovable. Yet, the reflection is distorted. Their broken heart will not provide an accurate reflection of love.

Nor will young women find their body image correctly reflected through trends, magazines or movie stars. When I view my short legs, thick thighs and curvy structure to the model industry standard, I will always come up wanting. The key is to shape the view of my body on a true reflection.

Our mind sees what it believes, according to the Discovery Channel. I have known many beautiful women who could not see their beautiful uniqueness because of their belief based on external reflections. Those reflections tormented and haunted them to the point of misery.

Reflections are a tool…only a tool. They can help us repair, adjust, fix, or improve the original but they are never intended to be the truest representation of the original.

The still water serves as a mirror for the tree, and its reflection is what makes the photograph sing. -unknown

The image sings only because of the stillness of the water.

Samantha Pearson is a contributing photographer for my blog. Although, I did not take this photo, it demonstrates my point about reflections. The beautiful sculpture is reflecting it’s surroundings yet the snow and the curvature of the piece distort the images it portrays. The truest beauty can be seen by simply turning from the reflection to the original.

In my journey, I have learned the value in turning from distorted reflections to look at the original standard for which I was created. Only then can I be the singing image that portrays that I was fearfully and wonderfully made.

D

Cee’s Black and White Photo Challenge: Reflections and Shadows