Do you remember that time when having straightened hair felt like the only way to fit in? It was as if being part of the ‘cool’ group meant having hair that didn’t curl or kink naturally.
We would plead with our parents, hoping they’d allow us to change our hair, wishing our curls could match what we believed was beautiful. When they refused, it sometimes left us feeling a bit down, as though our natural hair didn’t quite measure up to the standards, we saw around us.
But as we matured, something extraordinary began to unfold. We started to see the charm in our curls, coils, or waves. With a touch of care and attention, they unveiled their uniqueness, showing us that being different was something to treasure.
Yet, even today, it’s disheartening to witness some individuals not appreciating natural hair. They make comments like, “Don’t wear your natural hair to my event,” or “You’re not welcome if you have your natural hair.” It seems they haven’t yet grasped the beauty in the diversity of hair types.
These notions often stem from what we see on TV or from the generalised ideas of ‘beauty’. It’s like we’ve been taught not to love ourselves as we are, but rather to aspire to look different, more like what’s considered ‘better’.
However, embracing our natural hair goes beyond just choosing a hairstyle. It’s a voyage towards self-acceptance. When we started caring for our curls, a profound shift took place within us. It wasn’t solely about looking good; it was about feeling confident, smiling more, and taking pride in who we are.
Amid this journey, a crucial revelation dawned upon us: our beauty and confidence aren’t about mirroring someone else. They’re about honouring our individuality. Embracing our natural hair wasn’t just a rebellion against set standards; it was an act of loving ourselves more and celebrating our differences.
However, societal norms have often put pressure on us to fit into a particular mould. There’s a belief that natural hair isn’t tidy or suitable for special occasions. But we beg to differ. It’s not about conforming to someone else’s idea of perfection; it’s about declaring that we are perfectly fine just as we are.
Embracing our natural hair isn’t merely about following what’s trendy; it’s about reshaping what’s considered normal. It’s about creating a world where every hair type is revered—a world where beauty isn’t confined to a single style.
To those who have faced criticism for embracing their natural hair, know this: you’re part of a transformative movement. Your choice isn’t just about hair; it’s about self-empowerment and showing the world that beauty comes in diverse forms.
Ultimately, embracing our natural hair isn’t merely a physical transformation; it’s a journey of internal growth. It’s about declaring proudly, “This is me, and I cherish it.” Embracing our natural hair isn’t a passing trend; it’s a profound statement reflecting self-acceptance and a celebration of individuality.
