We've all seen her; maybe even envied her. Laughing brashly and surrounded by scores of suitors, she drew eyes like a magnet. The gaudy make-up, simpering smiles, flirtatious flounces, and flesh-baring clothes set her apart like a peacock amongst doves. Except, in that crowd, there weren't any doves. Oh, yes, you're hearing right. This vain, conceited peacock was only one of the flock.
Our culture is full of women who flaunt their bodies, displaying themselves for all the world to see. They pursue and preserve their outward beauty, yet they allow their inner beauty to rot like an ancient, moth-eaten book. Yes, these are the people I am talking about when I refer to "women." But *who* do I denote when I speak of a lady?
Definition of a Lady: A courteous, decorous, or genteel female.
Before I move on, I would like to announce that I am not condemning the term "woman" or a person who is a woman. In this article, the word "woman" does not refer to females but rather the opposite of this gentlewoman defined above. If the term "woman" did refer to a female, I would proudly call myself a woman. But, that isn't what I am talking about here. :)
The concept of a lady didn't start with the dictionary. As you may have already guessed, it originated in the Bible: Proverbs 31:30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 1 Peter 3:3-4 Do not let your adorning be external -- the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear -- but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious. Proverbs 11:12 Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion. Ladylike qualities:~Courteous~Genteel~Decorous~Polite~Honest~Pure~Discreet~Gracious~Poised~Classy~Graceful~Charming {though not as the world knows it}~Full of Christ-like love~Respectful~Honorable~Conducting yourself with dignity {but please, let us not be pompous!}~Cheerful~Having a sunny disposition~Determined~Diligent~Tactful~Stylish~Submissive~Gentle~Feminine~Modest~Demure~ElegantThe point of this post? Well, I have started a series on "Ladylike Elegance", and it talks about practical ways to become more ladylike in your daily life. {You know, sitting down, standing, etc.} But before I continue that, I feel a need to define what I meant by the words a "Lady" and a "Woman". We're not talking about carrying a handkerchief all the time or never being with matching gloves, hat, and a handbag. Being a lady is about cultivating your inner beauty, while in the process, growing in your outer beauty. Now... which are you aspiring towards? As for me, I have determined to become a true lady in every aspect of my life! Blessings!! =)
~Southern Belle
