In the latest display of celebrity self-indulgence, Michelle Obama is out there promoting her latest book, which, quite humorously, is essentially a fashion photo album. Titled “The Look,” it’s yet another example of an all too common phenomenon among the nation’s elite: the tireless quest for public validation cloaked under the guise of empowerment and societal commentary. From what seems to be a lengthy photo spread of herself, it might just as well be called “The Look.” But perhaps that’s too pragmatic in an era where substantive discourse often takes a back seat to self-promotion.
Michelle Obama recently appeared on her podcast, “The Michelle Obama Podcast,” where she discussed the urgent need for society to be “educated” about different standards of beauty, specifically those of black women. Let’s pause for a moment. The notion that awareness equates to automatic admiration leads one to wonder if the former First Lady believes appreciation is merely a matter of educational enlightenment, or perhaps it’s about demanding respect for attributes yet to be articulated clearly beyond appearance.
Critically examining Michelle’s insistence on proclaiming beauty as a topic worthy of respect and conversation raises an important point – is respect truly something that can be demanded, or is it something inherently commanded by one’s actions? Here lies a lesson: demanding respect often results in precisely the opposite outcome. A case could be made that the strongest individuals are those who naturally command respect through their demeanor and achievements without having to brazenly insist upon it at every opportunity.
The compelling example extends beyond public figures to everyday life, as skillfully highlighted in a well-run household. Parents grappling with rowdy children will find that true authority doesn’t come by persistently demanding compliance, but rather by embodying it. In environments where respect is commanded through consistency, reliability, and self-assurance, the command of authority naturally follows. This is a timeless reminder that commanding presence far outshines the hollow clanging of demands in fostering respect and admiration.
Ultimately, this dialogue steers the narrative to a broader understanding of esteem in society. Respect, much like beauty, is subject to perception and personal disposition. The efforts to insist on universal standards are, in essence, futile if the foundational premise is not established on personal merit and integrity. As the holiday season approaches, bringing families together, let us embrace what’s truly meaningful: the wisdom of commanding respect through actions that speak louder than words or self-referential affirmations.
