January 25th, 2015. The best of the best, the most beautiful, fawned over, drop-dead gorgeous women in the world were in one room, competing for the coveted crown and sash to reign as 2015's Miss Universe. One of millions of girls watching the event live on television, I couldn't help but envy their long legs and perfect six-pack abs on the swimsuit round, the seemingly effortless answers given during the on-stage question, and the elegance and grace radiating each girl as she floated across the stage in her gown.
Like any other average girl watching the event, I wished I could have been on that stage, wearing a beautiful flowing dress just like them. I wished I could have the confidence and influence to represent my country with finesse and ease. What did these girls know that I didn't know? What was their secret? How were they so easily put-together? How did they get that incredible opportunity?
Finding myself frustrated, I had to remind myself of one very important detail: these girls may be special, but I'm special, too. The comparison game is so easily played inside our heads, measuring up our bodies, our jobs, our boyfriends, our Twitter followers, against other girls. Why is it that we, as women, are constantly judging ourselves so harshly against others?
The Word of God says “you are fearfully and wonderfully made. I have knit you together in your mothers womb.” There is something on this Earth that only you can do, be it putting a smile on your parents faces, helping your little brother with his math homework, giving a friend a pat on the back, or sharing encouraging words with a waitress at your favorite restaurant.
The women in the Miss Universe pageant were princesses for that night. But the truth is, we're all princesses in the eyes of God. You were made exactly how He wanted you, and He has a glorious plan for your time on this Earth. He wants us to strive to be our very best. Just like the Miss Universe contestants had to run for miles on the treadmill, stay up-to-date on the latest news, and spend hours preparing a perfect talent, we are called to prepare for the rest of our lives. Seeking out wise mentors, using our resources to travel, and studying up on the Word of God or our future career will turn us into the exact women we were called to be.
Move over, Miss Universe, because young, Christian women are ready to take on the world, led by God every step of the way. Crown or no crown!
