I agree with much that has been said. It really does start at home. When your mother and grandmother and cousins and aunties are very confident and comfortable with who they are (warts and all), it is much easier to also appreciate the same in yourself.
I have noticed that women are not as confident about our "place" in this society, so it leads us to do things we would not have done before. We're told to be either "superwoman" or "hoes" (be down for whateva) or "stay at home moms" or career-focued"...the list goes on. Is it any wonder that women are now involved in many self-destructive behaviors?
One solution? Women to women mentoring...I mentor a 17-year old girl, and while I'm not perfect, I know I have learned some things between 17 and now, and try and impart them to my mentoree. I also have mentors that I continually learn from--older women whose opinions I value. If you can start a "Girls Rites of Passage" program in your church or community group, do it!
Just my $19.20.
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