We Are Being Lied To
It’s time to get honest with ourselves. Culture’s beauty standards are messed up. We all know it, and we all think we can resist the pull to look a certain way. Yet most of us–our daughters and nieces too–still strive for a broken kind of beauty and feel I’m. not. good. enough.
For Melissa Johnson, a marriage and family therapist, this lie eventually led to battling an eating disorder. Through that experience, she saw that chasing broken beauty breaks women in so many ways. She also realized that true, soul-deep beauty is not impossible–it abounds in us and all around us. And now Melissa’s on a mission to help you
uncover the hidden damage cultural lies about beauty have on your mind and soul
reconnect with God, in whose image you are made
walk away from shame and striving
love yourself–and others–unconditionally
True beauty is the fullness of life we are longing for. It’s the reality that blows our minds, affirms our true worth, and invites us into an adventure that meets our deepest longings. And it’s true beauty that will save us if we open our eyes to it.
“Nothing is more shattered or more misunderstood in our lives than beauty. On our own, we are unable to recapture God’s vision for it, and every generation needs guides who can reintroduce it to us again for the first time. In Melissa Johnson, we have such a guide.”–CURT THOMPSON, MD, author of The Soul of Desire and The Soul of Shame
Discover Soul-Deep Beauty: Reclaim Your True Worth in a World Obsessed with Flawless, by Melissa L. Johnson Are you tired of the relentless pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards? Do you feel trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and striving for an unattainable ideal? In "Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless," marriage and family therapist Melissa Johnson offers a powerful and deeply personal exploration of the lies culture tells us about beauty and how to break free from their destructive grip. Johnson, drawing from her own battle with an eating disorder, exposes the hidden damage these cultural lies inflict on our minds and souls. This isn't just another self-help book; it's a compassionate guide that understands the unique struggles women face in a world saturated with carefully curated images and unattainable ideals. Johnson's writing is raw, honest, and relatable, creating a safe space for readers to confront their own insecurities and begin the journey towards self-acceptance. "Soul-Deep Beauty" goes beyond simply identifying the problem; it offers practical strategies for reclaiming your inherent worth and embracing a true, soul-deep beauty that transcends outward appearances. Johnson expertly weaves together her professional expertise with her personal experiences and a strong foundation in Christian principles, creating a holistic approach to healing and self-discovery. This transformative book helps you: * **Unmask the Lies:** Expose the subtle and not-so-subtle ways cultural messages distort your perception of beauty and impact your self-esteem. Johnson dissects the pervasive narratives that fuel comparison, shame, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. * **Reconnect with Your Creator:** Rediscover your worth as a uniquely created individual in the image of God. Johnson helps you rebuild a healthy relationship with yourself, grounded in faith and divine love. * **Walk Away from Shame and Striving:** Break free from the exhausting cycle of trying to measure up to impossible standards. Learn to release the burden of self-criticism and embrace the freedom of authenticity. * **Love Yourself and Others Unconditionally:** Cultivate compassion for yourself and extend that same grace to those around you. Learn to see beauty not as a commodity to be attained, but as an inherent quality in every human being. * **Find Lasting Fulfillment:** Discover that true beauty lies not in flawless features or a perfect physique, but in the fullness of life, the joy of connection, and the pursuit of purpose. "Soul-Deep Beauty" is more than just a book; it's an invitation to embark on a life-changing adventure. It's a call to reclaim your inherent worth, embrace your authentic self, and discover the profound beauty that resides within. Endorsed by Curt Thompson, MD, author of "The Soul of Desire" and "The Soul of Shame," who states, "Nothing is more shattered or more misunderstood in our lives than beauty. On our own, we are unable to recapture God's vision for it, and every generation needs guides who can reintroduce it to us again for the first time. In Melissa Johnson, we have such a guide." If you're ready to break free from the chains of cultural expectations and discover a true, lasting beauty that radiates from within, "Soul-Deep Beauty" is the guide you've been waiting for. Perfect for women seeking self-help, Christian guidance, or a path to healing from eating disorders and body image issues. This book also offers insight and support for those struggling with women's issues, personal growth, religion, and spirituality. Published by Bethany House Publishers, this 208-page paperback is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to live a more authentic and fulfilling life. Melissa L. Johnson's compassionate and insightful approach will empower you to embrace your true worth and shine from the inside out.