I want to talk about body image, which is how we think and feel about our body. If you look around you’ll notice that we all come in different sizes, shapes and have different hair color. That’s what makes us unique and special as a person. We wouldn’t want to look all the same with the same interests or things would get pretty boring. Everyone spends too much time thinking about how we look; we are constantly reminded about appearance on TV. How many of you watch Canada’s Next Top Model? Have you noticed that the girls aren’t nearly as beautiful as in their photographs? Surprising what makeup and lighting can do. It is unrealistic to compare ourselves to celebs on TV. I’ve heard girls say “I’m too fat. I’m too skinny. My feet are too big. I’d be happier if I was taller, shorter, had straight hair curly hair, or a smaller nose.” The list goes on and on. If people only realized that they focus more on themselves than other people. Did you all notice how big my feet are or that I have this big zit on my chin? You know what, there are many things that we can’t change so we are just going to have to suck it up and quit singing the “poor me blues.” Negative talk won’t do us any good. “Shake what our momma gave us” and make the best of the things that we can change without being unrealistic. We are all good at something and many people are good at quite a few things. You may not be born a good singer, a super athlete or an honor student… but that’s OK. Maybe you are a good cook, dancer, swimmer, have a great sense of humor or are a good friend. You might be thinking that you don’t have a talent or strength, but maybe you are not aware of it and need to develop some interests that you have into strengths. Talk with your mom or dad, an aunt or uncle, or a teacher to help you look at a few things you’re interested in and come up with a plan to develop skills or interests. Be positive when trying new things, if you make a mistake that is all right. Instead of saying “I’m such a loser” say ”Hey, I’m human” and learn from your mistakes. It’s OK to get upset when things don’t turn out as expected but get over it and move on. Remember, you’re our body is your own and you can take care of it making it the best that you can by staying fit and eating a healthy diet. You have full control over what you think and how you behave so focus on the inside…that’s what counts. People won’t remember what you all accomplished but they remember how you made them feel…so just accept yourself the way you are and be a good person.
Now I want everyone to stand up, raise your right hand and make the P.E.P. Promise, repeat after me:
1. I will respect others and treat them how I want to be treated.
2. I will be positive and focus on the good things that I do.
3. I am a valuable person and I love myself.
4. I will have the courage to try new things.
5. I have the power to believe in myself and make the right choices.
So today let’s be the best that we can be as the grade 12 girls pamper you with a manicure because you are special. Jerry’s drugstore has generously donated mini manicure sets and nail polish. The Heisler Royal Purple Ladies donated money to purchase each of you nail polish for you to take home.
The
P.E.P. Promise
1.
I will respect others and treat them how I want to be treated.
2.
I will be positive and focus on the good things that I do.
3.
I am a valuable person and will compliment myself every day.
4.
I will have the courage to try new things.
5.
I have the power to believe in myself and make the right choices.