Mirrored Goodness by Shirley Vincent

You’re still beautiful on the inside.

Don’t worry!  Your hair will grow back.

Comforting words, but as I gazed into the mirror, ET gazed back.  With errant wisps of hair and a solitary eyelash on each eyelid, I felt more hideous than human.

But I’m stubborn.  I wasn’t going to wallow for 6 months during my treatments.  My Project Pride and Perseverance had to begin now.  I walked nearly every day and dragged myself to exercise classes.  Don’t whine!  Win became my mantra.  When I learned of Look Good… Feel Better, I was reluctant.  I didn’t even want my husband to see my bald head.  How would I feel about strangers?  But did I mention I’m stubborn?  The room was packed – bald, scarved, wigged women from thirty to seventy  all sharing a common bond and common desire:  to be stronger and more comfortable with ourselves in this unasked-for time in our lives.  Questions, counsel, laughter as each helped the other.  Oh, that color lipstick looks good on you or Let me help you with the eyeliner. No longer strangers, we were a sisterhood, and we emerged smiling and more confident.   I realized I could help other sisters.  Edith Wharton said There are two ways of spreading light:  to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.  Now I could be a candle for others and spread the news of Look Good…Feel Better.  When I learned of another’s struggle with the effects of chemotherapy, I called and told her to find your program in her area, so that she too could be a mirror of light.

Now, as I gaze into the mirror, I see full eyelashes and curly fuzz all over my head.    I am radiant because I am blessed, and I am beautiful inside and out