THIS early morning, I was listening to one of Christina Aguilera’s songs called “Reflection,” inspired by the movie Mulan while waiting for my younger son at school. Whenever I hear this line, “If I wear a mask I can fool the world but cannot fool my heart,” the word “Mask” makes me think of something hidden or used to conceal.
So, the word “mask” indicates a kind of facade or guise, meaning “a false external appearance or a temporary face worn to hide your true feelings or self.” In my opinion, this phrase implies that even if you wear a mask to hide what you truly feel to please everyone around you, you can’t easily escape the reality that, in your inner self, you are different and you feel different.
Wearing a mask is just a way to ease your feelings and cope with the situation.
So, why do we have to pretend to be someone that we're not?
Nowadays, society often imposes certain expectations and standards. People feel pressured to conform to these expectations, making it hard for them to express their true selves. The fear of rejection or criticism from others can lead to self-doubt, causing individuals to strive to project an image that aligns with others’ expectations rather than embracing their authentic selves. Their experiences may have instilled a fear of vulnerability or a need for self-protection, causing them to hide or suppress certain aspects of their identity.
The longer they wear their masks, the more they struggle with self-awareness and have difficulty understanding their values, desires, and beliefs. It may be challenging for them to embrace their authenticity and make choices that align with their true individuality. We internalize society’s standards, waiting for the moment when we will finally be perfect enough to be leaders – a moment that never comes because perfection is unattainable.
Just like Mulan, she hid her true self just to please her family, but deep inside, there was something more within her. After her father is recruited to fight the invading Huns, he is not fit to fight against them. She disguises herself as a man and takes his place. With her courage, determination, and strategic thinking, she defeats the Hun army and saves the Emperor’s life.
Mulan broke the rules and reaped the rewards.
In real life, sometimes it takes a leap of faith to show who you truly are to the world and embrace it. Defy what society expects. Present your true self to the world. Not everyone may like the way you are, but for others, it gives them inspiration that being themselves is empowering and provides a chance to love themselves more.
As the emperor says, “The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.”
Are you willing to take your mask off?
