No, really-- it's OK.

 I think every person has their own identity and beauty. Everyone being different is what is really beautiful. If we were all the same, it would be boring. –Tila Tequila

  

My husband and I have matching t-shirts that we’ve been wearing a lot during Pride Month. On the front are four elephants, all viewed from behind: three ordinary grey elephants and one amazing patchwork elephant. Underneath, it says It’s OK to be a little different.

I love the shirt, not just because it’s elephants, but because it’s so true.

There is a wonderful children’s story by David McKee, about a patchwork elephant named Elmer.[1] Everyone loved Elmer, just the way he was- even though Elmer didn’t always like himself.

One day, he made himself look ordinary grey, like all the other elephants—but it only lasted about a minute, because it wasn’t who he was, and it was so BORING! When the other elephants realized it was Elmer all along—well, they loved him all the more. (Isn’t that exactly how it should be?)

Be proud. Be yourself. You are exactly what the world needs right now.


Monday Look honestly in the mirror this morning. Look past the messy hair or uneven skin, and love your beautiful face. 1 Samuel 17:1-4

Tuesday Think about what makes you, you on the inside. When people describe you, what kids of words do they use? Affirm the kind words in your heart. 1 Samuel 17:5-11

Wednesday List five qualities (at least) about yourself that you like. Keep going. . . . 1 Samuel 17:19-20

Thursday Make it your mission today to tell people you meet what you see in them that makes the world better or more fun—even if they are complete strangers. (Watch their faces light up!) 1 Samuel 17:32-37

Friday Today, name people that you are grateful to have in your life. Consider writing them a love note. (A note lasts longer than a phone call!) 1 Samuel 17:38-40

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, be grateful. Simply give God thanks. 1 Samuel 17:41-47

Sunday Look around you at the many ways God has blessed you! Share your thoughts with someone you care about! 1 Samuel 17:48-50

 

Different is good, and being different is what makes us stand out in the world. –Natalya Neidhart


[1] David McKee, Elmer. New York: 1999, Harper Collins.

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