Do We Really See Ourselves?

I started a quick self portrait from memory with markers.

You would think that the few minutes each day spent in front of the mirror

applying make up would give me a working knowledge of my own face.

I mean, we're talking about years.

But this drawing could be anyone.  

One of the participants in Misty's online workshop

said she layered her piece until she loved it.  I love this statement 

and have adopted it as my mantra. 

I layered and layered with markers, Caran d'arch crayons, pencil, acrylic.

Was ready to toss in the bucket several times but reminded myself 

to layer until. . . 

I love it.  

But to answer the question do we really see ourselves?  

I think we all do but at different times through different 'lenses.'  

To be honest, sometimes I see myself and only see imperfections, my short comings 

come through in front of everything else.  At other times I am more neutral and on rare occasions I see the me I'd like to believe I am, the person with a kind, soft heart blessed 

with a vital energy, curiosity and creativity, a seeker and searcher 

who loves deeply and loves to connect with others.