Body Image: A Physical Look at Equality
by
Nancy Wong and Rebecca Ellison
Society tells us that long hair, long legs, thin bodies, big breasts,
makeup, name-brand clothes, smelling good, etc., are the ingredients
for being accepted.
About
100 teenagers enthusiastically responded to this workshop on the issues
created by an unhealthy emphasis on physical appearances. Geared toward
young women, it also was attended by a handful of young men.
Wong and Ellison created an environment that allowed for openness,
honesty and participation—drawing from the teens a variety of heartfelt
questions and answers. Wong expressed to the young group that society
neglects to provide tools for their spiritual development. Ellison explained
that the media—magazines, TV, radio, newspapers—de-emphasize
spirituality.
Mona Shariati, 16, felt the workshop helped her to love herself for
who she is and to develop her insides before she focuses on the outside.
David Pane, 16, attended the workshop because he felt that society
affects his day-to-day decision making. He believes that now he will
be less materialistic and less susceptible to the pressure.
—Neda Najibi, reporter
