Pageant Brainwashing

The video began playing, “Be true to yourself. The judges want to see girls who are real...”

“A girl who is real...” you respond back.

“Always maintain excellent posture. Shoulders back, chin parallel to the ground, and back straight, whether you're sitting or standing...”

“Maintain good posture...”

“Keep your walk slow and elegant during evening gown.”

“Keep walking slow and elegantly...”

“Never get yourself down because you think the other girls are "better" or "prettier".”

“I am the best... I am beautiful!”

“Do whatever it takes... whatever it takes, to please the judges.”

“Pleasure the judges...” you say. The TV screen goes black.

You blink, “What was I saying?”

You feel the car suddenly stop. Looking out you see what appears to be the pageant. The driver lets you out and you slowly begin to walk down a red carpet as people take your picture. You smile and try your best to look elegant.

What am I doing, you think to yourself. While your body continues down the carpet smiling and winking at the cameras.