“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it
is attained by a righteous life.”
(Proverbs 16:31 NIV)
I recently
read an article that described hairstyle discrimination in the late 1990’s. The
author claimed a large majority of women felt compelled to straighten their unruly
hair in order to be socially acceptable.
The writer
boldly ignored peer pressure and embraced the kinky curly hair God gave her to glorify
Him. Her daring rebellion was a beacon of light. It encouraged women to escape
their prisons of conformity and embrace their God-given beauty.
Single
strands of hair on my head turned white in my early thirties, prompting my
mother to pursue me with a box of Clairol. I obediently covered those annoying,
white wisps for many years.
Then one
day I mused, “God gave me these striking hairs for a reason. I refuse to hide
them!” I determined my heavenly Father crafted the best hair color for me, a softening
camouflage for wrinkles that crept across my forehead, eyes, and mouth. Into
the trash flew my collection of hair-dye packages!
“My son, do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you prosperity.”
(Proverbs 3:1-2 NIV)
My gray
hair is not a reflection of a righteous life - I am far from holy. God’s
wisdom poured through me enables me to make more excellent choices resulting
in a long life. Passing years afford each hair an opportunity to turn gray, or
white, or whatever they desire. I wonder what color my hair will be in heaven? (Another
story for another time…)
I will
wear the ever-evolving crown of splendor God gives me, whether gray or silver
or white or blonde or black or brown or red (like my beautiful granddaughter)
with grace. I hope you will, too!
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