My Journey of Acceptance: Embracing My Dark-skinned Identity in India
As a dark-skinned girl growing up in India, my journey of self-acceptance was filled with both challenges and triumphs. I have faced countless moments of humiliation and discomfort due to the societal norms surrounding skin color. However, over time, I learned to love and embrace my dark-skinned identity, seeing beauty and strength in every mirror I looked into.
Early Struggles with Skin Color
My journey began with a fair skin hue, complemented by pink cheeks, inherited from light-skinned parents. Despite being from the south, I was the wildling who played in the sun, roamed through paddy fields, and embraced the outdoors. Over the years, my skin turned darker from exposure to the sun, yet I never gave it a second thought. However, people often reminded my parents that reversing the effects of tanning might be difficult, and with accompanying sunburns. Despite these challenges, my parents supported me, and my grandparents never offered conflicting advice. Yet, it was my aunt who repeatedly called me a Karadi, or black bear, in Tulu, and compared me to a Kudre, or wild horse, both negative terms.
Resilience and Self-Confidence
As a 15-year-old, I would retort sharply, seeing this as a reflection of my quick wit and determination. I maintained a reputation for being vicious and disrespectful, which, in retrospect, served me well. People started to respect me more for my sharp tongue and hard work. By the time I was in my mid-20s, I had built a resilient persona, and others were more cautious about their words around me.
The Journey of Adulthood
Over the years, I faced many suitors who were rejected due to my prophecy. Eventually, I met a dark-skinned man who respected me and I, in turn, found a partner who was fair and strong. Meanwhile, my aunt was stunned to see how I had landed a tall, fair man effortlessly. This journey taught me the importance of standing tall, holding my ground, and loving and respecting myself.
Final Reflections
The takeaway is that no matter where you live or what your skin color is, the key is to see yourself positively and embrace your true self. As Michael Jackson said, “It don’t matter if you’re black or white.”
It is the combination of one's own strength, support from family, and a resilient attitude that sets you apart. No one can dictate your path or determine your worth except yourself. Take pride in your skin and the unique journey it has taken you on. Nobody else can make you feel comfortable in your skin, but you can, and you have the power to do so. As I often say, “Nobody else can make you feel comfortable in your skin, but you can, and you have the power to do so.”