I was in a pageant

Ignore the flammable box and chemicals in the background 

I never thought this would be a part of my story...but it is.

Growing up, I had a cousin who was really into pageants. She was good at hair and makeup and loved competing.

I, on the other hand, couldn't tell you the difference between bronzer and blush...Anyway, one day, I entered a cash drawing sponsored by the Miss America pageant. Unbeknownst to me, I'd entered as a contestant! The "cash" was just a discount for the competition. Mercy! I was bummed.

And no, I did not go through with that and actually enter the competition. However, for some reason, I couldn't get doggone pageants outta my head! I started looking for local pageants and found one that benefits a local charity that I love!

I didn't win, but it was fun. Everyone walked away with something and I basically got a trophy and tiara that were more like an honorable mention. Ha-ha-ha.

During the whole thing, I was pretty disgusted that women my age (late 20s) subjected themselves (ok, ourselves) to being judged on how we looked in gowns and other attire. BUT, all of them were so encouraging of each other, cheering each other on! We all had different talents, personalities, and outward appearances, but that didn't matter.

Reminds me of how we should be in the Body of Christ. Cheering each other on, encouraging one another, praying for each other, and spurring each other on to good works.

My first and last pageant was memorable in more ways than I thought possible.