The Spark: An Inaccurate Family Meal
Even at seventy-five, Edith was a vivacious, self-assured woman who radiated confidence and style. She used her trademark red lips as a symbol for her vibrant disposition. However, she was unaware that her makeup choice would cause a stir when she got ready for a family meal that night.
Feeling proud and nostalgic, she applied her favorite shade of crimson with care. Wearing this lipstick to important occasions like job interviews and romantic dates with her late husband were among her many memorable outfit choices. It represented her unwavering vitality and was more than simply makeup.
Upon Steph’s early arrival, she noticed Edith in the act. He went on, sneering, “Mum, you look like an old clown who is striving to stay young.” It is not comfy.
The words felt like a punch to her. Her hand trembled from holding the lipstick as she paused. Before she could say anything further, Steph’s wife gave a smug smile and said, “Oh, I agree with Steph.” Red lipstick is not appropriate for older people. You should, in my opinion, follow the route that others have chosen.
Inside Edith’s chest, her heart beat. She was briefly surprised by their direct statements. But then she felt a flood of defiance wash over her. With a stern smile, she added, “Honey, mind your own business.”
Steph’s wife was surprised, her self-assurance wavering for a moment. As if cutting herself out of a quip, she shot out, “Sorry, Edith, we just do not want you to seem like a clown.”
Steph grinned and said, trying to gather herself, “Okay, mom, enjoy the circus.” His wife turned to leave Edith, still reeling from the emotional blow, and laughed again.
From Anguish to Rage: The Turning Point
Edith stayed there for a short while, her reflection in the mirror a sobering reminder of their hurtful remarks. She experienced the intense agony that results from being duped by the people you care about the most. But while she sat there in the corner, anger replaced her melancholy.
They are very nasty to her. How could anyone want to take away her dignity and uniqueness? All her life she had been defying social conventions and gaining confidence, and now her own family was attempting to undermine her.
Edith understood that she had to do something. It was about respect and standing up for oneself, not just about red lipstick. She made the decision to teach them a priceless lesson.
The Schedule: One Week of Get-Ready
The week after, Edith meticulously plotted her retaliation. She approached her neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, who was the same age and kind of woman, for help, and she also called a few reliable acquaintances. Together, they came up with a cunning and successful plan.
Initially, Edith made the decision to host a large dinner party at her home, inviting not just her son and his spouse but also more family members and friends. The guests were carefully chosen to include both those who could influence Steph and his wife and others who were respected by them.
She ensured everything was flawless by spending days in preparation. She prepared her finest china, cooked her son’s favorite meals, and decorated the house with lovely flowers. But her beauty was the main component of her plan. Edith looked amazing in a red dress and, of course, had on her trademark red lipstick on the evening of the dinner.
The Conflict: A Valuable Instruction
Edith’s crimson lips welcomed the guests with style and warmth, a charming act of defiance. When Steph and his spouse finally arrived, their first impressions of her rapidly deteriorated.
The event was going really well at first, with lots of laughs and vibrant banter. But Edith had something else in store for us. When the candies were distributed, she got to her feet to toast.
“I want to thank everyone who came,” she said in a clear, loud voice. “I have always thought you should love life to the fullest and accept who you are, no matter what other people may think.”
She looked over at Steph and his companion, who were adjusting their chairs incessantly. Last week I was told that my favorite red lipstick was not appropriate for my age. But flair and confidence, in my opinion, are always in style.
With every eye on Edith, the room went silent. For this reason, I would want to thank everyone in attendance for breaking social norms about appearance and behavior. To those who live boldly and eloquently, accepting who they really are.
Her relatives and friends erupted in cheers, with several of them raising their glasses simultaneously. Steph and his spouse appeared embarrassed, as though their arrogance had vanished.
With a smile, Edith showed off her ruby red lipstick under the chandelier light. She had made a pretty convincing case for herself. She was an adult; nobody could tell her how to live; her age was just a number.
Result: A Modified Dynamic
Over the next few weeks, Edith’s dynamics with her son and his spouse evolved. No more crude remarks or jesting jokes. Steph even acknowledged his mistakes and offered an apology. It seemed that his spouse had also picked up some tips from Edith, since she was now treated with dignity.
For the rest of the day, Edith happily wore her red lipstick, knowing that she had defended her rights and set a good example for others. She had regained her dignity and respect by demonstrating that age could not be a hindrance to self-expression and confidence.
Her courage silenced her detractors and encouraged others to accept who they really are, demonstrating that sometimes the most important teachings can come from the most unexpected places.
H/T : lifeblogs.am
