Recently, I came across a Diana Vreeland quote that brought tears to my eyes. She said, "You do not owe prettiness to anyone...Prettiness is not a rent you pay for occupying a space marked 'female'." It got me thinking, if I owe no-one prettiness, then why have I been shamed for loving my body, despite its faults? Why are countless girls crying themselves rivers of pain stemming solely from other's opinions on beauty?

Why are we expected to hate ourselves because we don't fit into society's cookie-cutter image of "beautiful"? Why do we stand for this (and in some cases even promote it)? Tell me why self-hate is common among females of all ages, and why it has become a trait that is expected out of women. I am tired of sitting back and holding my tongue, as a "lady should". I refuse to be silenced any longer by the hatred spread by others.

We as women, as the life source of our species, do not deserve to be belittled and controlled by despicable souls. We deserve respect and love. I demand respect. I demand love. But that starts in a central location, in my own self, and it took a very long time for me to discover such a thing. However I know it now, and I feel incredibly empowered. Now I am aware that my happiness is locked up tight in a little silver box, and the only person who holds the key is myself.

For years I was told that my curves were mountains of trash. That they were disgusting piles, taking up space that could be otherwise occupied by beauty. Now, I look in the mirror and see mountains gorgeous enough to rival the Appalachians. They are rocky and unpredictable, explored by few but loved nonetheless. They are beautiful, and they are mine.

For years I was told that my face was uneven, unnerving, and unpleasant. That I "would be so much prettier if I smiled". But my smile is not something to add to my general appeal. My smile is the gate to my soul, only to be opened for those I trust. It is not a card to be played when I need something, or want to look attractive; my smile is my happiness, and I get to decide when it is revealed.

For years I was told that my body was not enough. That it was underwhelming and that I would have to find a man who looks for personality, because everyone knew I would never get someone solely on my looks. I am here to tell you that I get to decide who loves my body. I am here to tell you that my body, and all bodies, are beautiful. I am here to reclaim my body. I am here for all of the women who have ever been demeaned for the way their body grew, for the way they are, and the way they were meant to be. How dare you tell us that we aren't enough? How dare you tell us that we could always be improved?

Our bodies are wonderful masterpieces, works of art constantly under construction. Each strand of hair on our bodies are brush strokes of pure beauty. Every breath we take is proof that the finest pieces of beauty are living, evolving with every second that passes. Do not let yourself fall victim to those who are blind to unique allure. Take pride in who you are, and always strive to help others gain sight of their own beauty. As women, we need to empower ourselves and each other, not tear one another apart because of our differences. Beauty is something that should be celebrated, not debated.