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When I was a teenager, my friend Ann & I used to report to each other on exiting a strange bathroom or Ladies loo - 'good mirror' or 'horrible mirror' - which was nothing to do with accuracy of reflection, but all to do with how flattering the lighting was! 😂

With people however, I think 'kind mirror' is probably what we all hope for!

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It’s interesting with the kind mirror thing. I think it’s a false friend.

Yes, temporarily it can be helpful to see ourselves in a ‘good light’. (I don’t think I’d ever have bought any clothes in person at all otherwise 😂😂😂)

But we need people around us who are accepting of us warts and all, don’t we? Who wants to be surrounded by flattery all the time?

And I want to do the same with others too. I actually think people are nicer because of their flaws, their humanity. Makes me less nervous about disappointing them too.

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Yes, you're right about the clothes!!!

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I like this. I first learnt about this way of seeing yourself when I read Miguel Ruiz , in his various books retelling the wisdom of his ancient Toltec people of Mexico

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Oh I’m not familiar, thank you.

I suppose I was just thinking how valuable it is to have someone accept you as yourself in all its entirety. How it’s the only mirror really worth being around.

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Thankyou . I put something in my diary back in 2020 /21 , after a challenging encounter with an acquaintance., it was just a drawing of a broken mirror , I couldn’t find the words at the time but this is what I meant ! X

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A picture says a thousand words as they say, hey? X

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"The best mirrors - and people - are those that neither embellish nor conceal" - It seems all my mirrors need a good polish!

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“Step into the light my child….”😂😂😂

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Maybe I should :-)

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-- Nice job, Julie! Mirrors, like honest companions, reflect the raw authenticity of our existence, inviting introspection and self-appreciation. I am grateful for how, in this essay, you explore the profound impact of mirrors on our perception of self, relationships, and the evolving landscapes of our journey. Thank you. 🌟 Xo.

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Not sure it’s really an essay, just a little musing but happy you took something from it.

May all your mirrors be crystal clear and show you all you are.:)

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