You Can't Wear That!

Someone once gave me advice. Things like "Don't buy a white bedspread." And "You will hate bangs. You won't be able to style them." And "Maxi dresses don't look good on you. You're too short and wide." This was someone giving advice out of love, not being mean, but it's funny how things sound when falling on insecure ears. I spent years believing these "truths." I hid in frumpy, baggy clothes. I didn't trust or love what I saw when I looked in the mirror.

Then I met my soul sister. It wasn't exactly love at first sight, but I was certainly intrigued. We met at new teacher orientation, and I remember looking across the conference table at this "girl" with bright red hair and some kooky outfit and thought, "There's no way this chick is a teacher." She said she thought I was a "know-it-all." From all outside appearances it wouldn't seem like the beginnings of a soul sister-type relationship, but this was a predestined friendship.

She gave me something I had never gotten from a friendship- complete support and acceptance. Through her eyes, I saw a very different Katie. Someone with beautiful curves and amazing hair and a perfect heart-shaped face. She gave me confidence that I never had on my own. Somebody once said I shouldn't wear maxi dresses because I am short and wide. I may be, but now when I look at pictures like the one below, I see awesome womanly curves in a great dress. And that's what friends can do for you!