It's the first thing I do in the morning. It calms me, gets me focused, and pumps me up for the day ahead. It is my own little time to think, reflect, collect my thoughts, and pray before I leave my room. It boosts my self esteem and allows me to start the day on the right foot.

What is it?
Drinking coffee or tea?
Listening to music?
Taking a jog?

No.
It's putting on makeup.

People start their days in different ways; this is just how I start mine. It wakes me up, keeps me focused, and is honestly a relaxing time. My brushes are tools, and I am the canvas. I can be creative. I can be focused. I can be serious. I can be girly or goth, sweet-faced or powerful. When I put on makeup, I can be whoever I want to be.

So please don't harass me for it.

I'm not saying all girls need to wear makeup. I believe it is a personal choice whether or not you do and that your value as a human being is not based on whether you wear mascara or not. Some girls wear makeup, some don't, and both are perfectly fine. But there is a serious issue when girls become harassed for wearing it.

So-called "friends" parade themselves without makeup like Venus in the pearl, spouting about how their decision is better. They burn brushes and shatter palettes in the name of confidence. They attack me under the guise of friendship and care, saying they only want the best for me.

"You're so pretty without makeup!"
And in the same breath:
"You're just insecure."

Trust me, I've heard it all.

"Your acne will get better if you stop wearing makeup!"
I've tried. I've gone on two prescriptions and nothing has happened. My skin just gets worse the longer I go without makeup.

"Wouldn't you want to be able to rub your face like me without worrying about smearing your makeup?"
No, because touching your face gives you acne.

"You just need to go natural!"
And in the same breath,
"You look sick!"

Makeup is my choice. I wear it when I want and how I want, and who does it affect? Me. Just me.

Suggesting in good nature that I take a break every now and again is okay--but do not berate me just because I don't take your advice. It is my face and my money, and I can do with those as I see fit.

When has it suddenly become a sin to wear makeup and enjoy it? Since when has putting on concealer and lipstick been considered something only insecure girls do? Why can't women wear makeup because they like it? Why do anti-makeup women have to scream and shout at their makeup-wearing sisters?

I wear makeup because it makes me feel powerful. Sometimes a cat eye or cheekbone shimmer is exactly what I need for that little confidence boost, whether I'm walking to the store or giving a presentation. I wear makeup because I like the way I look in it. I feel like myself. It comforts me.

Fine, I admit it.

Makeup makes me feel pretty.
But it's not the only thing that makes me feel pretty. Wearing a special outfit, curling my hair, and smiling all also make me feel pretty. Who is demonizing smiling? Is curling your hair detrimental and suddenly bad for your mental health too?

Of course not. So stop attacking me for my choice to wear makeup. I do not look down on you for not wearing it, so do not berate me for wearing it.

Makeup is my choice, as it is yours. And if I choose to wear it, or not, is none of your business.