Just Stay True To You

“The average teen girl gets about 180 minutes of media exposure daily …” ~ Renee Hobbs, EdD, Associate Professor of Communications, Temple University

“We’re seeing girls at younger ages starting to be dissatisfied with their bodies, proactively trying to change them, and feeling like they need to emulate something different than what their bodies can do.” ~ Elissa Gittes, MD, Pediatrician, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh

Low self-esteem.
Eating disorders.
Unhealthy relationships.
A sense of futility.
Suicide.

Deceptive and unachievable images of women in media and entertainment are taking a toll on our beautiful young girls. Exquisite young minds that should be wonder-filled, loving and hopeful are instead urged to focus on unrealistic depictions of women who are, quite often, digitized and Photoshopped beyond recognition by their own families!

We celebrate “stars” who have achieved little more than being nice to look at, or worse, who have gained celebrity status for bad behavior. Just being known… or being known for outrageous behavior … is quickly becoming more important than being known for doing something of value.

Yes, I did compete in pageants and I was honored to win the title of Miss Virginia. (I can only think that the judges considered me “comic relief” and that’s why I stood out!) I’ve performed on some pretty great stages, had the opportunity to travel, meet amazing people, appear on TV and yes, wear some fabulous clothes and cosmetics. Yet, through it all, the women who have been most influential and memorable, have been those who are strong and genuine, who encouraged me to be myself, and who had their own powerful sense of confidence … a confidence that came from “who I am” and not “how I look.” These are the women who radiate absolute joy and are the kinds of people that others want to be around.

PAY IT FORWARD MUSIC LLC was created for one purpose; to share good things with others out of my sincere gratitude for the good that has been shared with me. It’s that simple.

And so, I am very excited to announce a new program for 2015.

In cities where I perform, I’ll be available to speak to groups of girls to share my experiences and ideas about real beauty, about setting goals and reaching for dreams. We’ll talk about loving ourselves no matter what the magazines and TV shows say. We’ll chat about the pressures girls feel today, and talk about solutions and what it takes to enjoy meaningful success. They’ll even get a chance to see me without all of the “fluff” … the way I really am … which is just like them! And of course, we’ll share a little music!

This is a free program because it is an important message.

I may only be a small voice in the wilderness but I want girls to know, “You are perfect just as you are.”

For more informationm to schedule or sponsor an appearance at your school, church, community center or other location, please contact info@penguinpublicity.com