The Day Had Come...
Friday morning, May 26, 2017 I woke up late. I was supposed to be in Memphis at 5:30 in the morning to start my makeup. Imagine my distress when I rolled out of bed 10 after 5. I messaged Sara Green, my photographer and my support system, Beth to explain that I was running late. Everyone but myself seemed unbothered by my tardiness. I cried all the way into Memphis convincing myself that this was a sign. I did not need to be doing this shoot and this whole thing was the worst idea in the world.
I sat down at my friend Jennifer's Kitchen table and Faith Knolton started my makeup. I hope the pictures tell you a story of strength, love, and compassion for beauty in its own truth, not society's version of truth.
. 
And just like that we were headed downtown. I wasn't ready but I was determined. Besides, If I cried anymore then my makeup would mess up.
A few girls from the house wrote me letters of encouragement to read when I was scared or felt hopeless. In reading these I found strength.
The time had come. I could feel the fear in my chest, my hands, my heart, my mind. I tried to smile.
This picture. This is my vulnerability exposed. The most powerful picture taken. This picture captures my truth. I can feel all those emotions flooding back.
And off we went.
This day I felt powerful yet I felt eyes looking at me. I felt a little cold on my head. Mostly, I felt beautiful. My past may have been painful and at times traumatizing. I may still need to work on me a lot more. But my message is simple. The reflection in the mirror isn't always the one we want staring back, but beauty is not found in a reflection. It's found in your heart. For every girl who doesn't feel adequate or pretty enough, I hope you see this and know you were made with perfection.
#YourAutoimmunityIsGorgeous
Until next time,
Shannon
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