This portrait is of a woman who has had big ambitions since she was a child. She had many adverse issues that she dealt with when she was young, (abuse, thyroid problems, bullying, etc.) but she was determined to become a model and nobody and nothing was going to stop her.
Belinda struggled with her weight all her life, due to her thyroid issues, and her weight would fluctuate up or down as many as 5 dress sizes in a single year. She was finally able to get things under control, but remained on the heavier side of her range, so she decided she was going to be a plus size model and inspire girls like herself, and let them know that a person’s potential is in themselves, not in what others think about them.
They say, “Beauty is only skin deep.” No truer words were ever spoken. Beauty is subjective, true on some levels, but also, one must be willing and open to recognizing the beauty in others, to appreciate them for what they have to offer.
Society is so adversely influenced by politics, religious differences, race superiority, etc. in short… judgement of others. If we could only disregard all of that noise, and take a step back, we could see the beauty and potential in others, and this would be a much better world for all of us. Our differences, our gifts as I like to think of them, are what make us unique individuals. Diversity in beauty, in thinking, and in perspective is at the heart of humanity, it’s how we learn, grow, and reach our true potential as a society. It’s time we get back to being more human to each other and reap the benefits of a united and synergistic human race.