Three Words

Posted on by beautybeyondbones

One thing about the acting business is that you’ve always got to be on your feet.

Ready for anything. Able to improvise at the drop of a hat.

Especially during auditions.


This past Saturday I had, probably one of the best auditions of my life. It was for the lead in a TV pilot.

I got the scene two days before and I just rehearsed the crap out of the thing. Knew it cold, frontwards, backwards and sideways. I was going to nail it. I was prepared.

But there was one thing at the audition I wasn’t quite prepared for:

“What are three words that best describe you?”

 

Uuuhh…Three words. Come on, BBB, you’ve been doing this silly little exercise since kindergarten. Just THINK OF SOMETHING.

And I mean, I did. Gracefully. I think I managed to rattle off something like, “I love to have fun.” “I’m a loyal friend.” And “I’m true to who I am.”

Not exactly three words, per se, but then…I’m never really one to be concise. 😉

cher-oops-gif-1426032660

But I walked away from that audition feeling on top of the world. I really connected with the part and I truly felt like I did my best.

But after reflecting on it some more, that silly little “getting to know you” question really stuck with me. Why was it so hard to think of three words?

And yes, a lot of things went through my mind to say: energetic, outgoing, kind, empathetic, caaaasually witty.


But those just weren’t really hitting it.

Here’s what I was really wrestling with:

To answer that question, I had to first answer this: Who am I, really?

I mean, that’s a pretty deep question when it comes right down to it.


Yes, I was pretty accurate in my answer. But there’s a lot more to me, too.

What I wanted to say was this: I’m a believer. I’m an overcomer. I am strong.

What I wanted to say was that I have gone through some pretty heavy crap in my life and have survived. Come out the other side more resilient and more in tune with who I am.


That I am a mended piece of art — that I have been broken, but have been put back together, and God has made beauty from that brokenness.

I wanted to say that I am complex. Full of thoughts and ideas.

That even though I am cheerful and generally a pretty happy person, that I have seen some dark times. That I have persevered through pain. Despair. Seasons of true destruction of body, mind and spirit. But that I did not succumb to that darkness. I was a fighter and reclaimed my life. My freedom. My soul.

And what I really wanted to say was that I cannot and could not be any of those things without the saving hand of Jesus. That He was and is the one who strengthens me and allows me to be every complexity and nuance and intricacy that is the young woman standing in front of you today.

Fun loving, a good friend and true to myself — sure. I guess you could say that was my “PC” answer. The pageant version.

But there’s more to me than that. A depth the cannot be captured in three little words.

So now, I turn the question to you, and invite you to take a minute to reflect on the person you’ve become as a result of all your yesterdays and trials and triumphs.

Who are you, really?

Let’s celebrate that.

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beautybeyondbones

BBB: Because we're all recovering from something. // For speaking/business inquiries: beautybeyondbones@yahoo.com

270 thoughts on “Three Words”

  2. I am all that I am now with more to come along the way. That’s the best way to describe me.

    It’s bananas that you rocked your audition! I’m sure you’re a shoe-in! Keep us updated, please! 🙂

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  5. I’d have to say passionate, confident, vast. Sounds pretty prideful doesn’t it? lol.

    Passionate because I love the things that I love. That which I love is what I pursue after the hardest. If I love you, you’re going to know it despite my flaws.
    Confident because of what I’ve been through and who brought me through it. I’m not confident in myself because of who God is making me. I’m confident because of what He’s done for me.
    Vast because of the emotions I feel. Yeah, I’m a guy and yeah, I have emotions. Lots of them. Like you, I’m so much more than a gender stereotype. I feel, I breathe, I live. These are who I am.

    Great post and do tell if you get the part. 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

  7. I hope everything works out for you on the tv pilot. Oooo just like being in an interview; you’ve practiced and prepared then it’s one of those psychological questions that throws you for a loop. I probably would have choked.

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    1. Hey Stephanae! Thank you so much:) yeah-such a simple little “fluff” question that, you’re right, does throw ya for a loop! The preparation paid off though cuz I was able to get my head back in the game! Hehe thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox

      Liked by 1 person

  8. You are correct when you say that the question can take you deep if you choose to dive into it. In my B.C. days I would have said that I was more a chameleon in that I would change who I was based on the crowd I happened to be with. Now I would say real, teachable, responsive ( which is currently under renovation ) would be three that would describe me. The question can stir fear deep within as you may wonder ” Am I enough”?

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Hey friend! You are so right–it does trigger that question. And I like your “three!” Being real is IMHO one of the most important qualities out there. Thanks for stopping by! Hugs xox

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  12. Hope you get the part! And yes, the question of who we are is truly complex. Bravo for actually being able to see inside of yourself! I enjoy how you always turn your posts back to Him. It’s very refreshing and lets me see that He is part of everything we do! Thanks for making my day! 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  14. I bet all of that came through in your strong audition. You’re a legend. Hope you get the part, but regardless of whether you do or not you should celebrate your strength and resilience. And everything beautiful that you are. A lovely post.

    Liked by 3 people

  15. I loved it! I had a similar situation on my application for the permanent diaconate. What were my good and bad characteristics? It was rough. But to answer your question, 3 words…
    Loud
    Friendly
    Fun

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  16. Hi Ana. Nice post; it brought something slightly off topic to mind. My 12 year old son wants to be an actor. Have you done a post that speaks to the difficulty in living for Christ in Hollywood and the bearing of your faith on the types of roles you audition for.
    ❤️ Vanessa

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    1. Hi Vanessa! Thank you so much 🙂 That’s a great question. I haven’t done a post on that, but I will put it on the list! Luckily I live in NYC — I feel it is easier to live my faith here than Hollywood. (No offense to any LA-ers out there!) But for me personally, I have really grown in my faith in the Big Apple. But you’re right it is definitely difficult. I’ve had to turn down numerous parts because they go against my beliefs and morals. But it is a great way to express yourself and tell stories that need to be told. Best of luck to your son! Thanks for reading! hugs and love 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

  17. When anyone gets put on the spot they will say something PC. No shame in that babe :-* At least next time you’ll be ready. Good luck with the part!!!

    Like

  20. I dread these kind of questions, right? I mean honestly! 3 words
    to define my life. Here it is: Jesus. Wife. Mother. I guess
    That’s the core of it at least. There are deep layers in between each.
    Hope you get the part!

    Liked by 1 person

  22. I hadn’t thought about that question in the same depth before….normally I answer it with silly things like “bookworm” “spartan” and “mini-mom” (I take the whole three words thing literally…) but you have a good point. There is so much you could use to describe yourself, and so many ways you could show your walk with Christ and your adventures through life. I think the next time someone asks me that I will try to answer it seriously, although I can guarantee that my answers won’t be as well received as the sarcastic quirky ones I usually go for.

    Just from reading your blog, the first word that I felt described you was “warrior.” You’ve used it often, and I think it best shows what you have gone through. The next though, was “comforter.” You have no idea how many people you have encouraged through your writing. Thank you for sharing so much of your struggle, and your victories with everyone who reads your blog.

    And while this is off topic I just wanted to say that I mentioned my sister on one of your older posts and she is doing a lot better now. She started dance last month and has fallen in love with it, and she’s getting stronger and healthier than before. There are still bad days as well as good, but she has gotten comfortable around us again, and that’s really important to me. Reading your blog has helped me talk with her, and it reminded me not to give up on the bad days.

    By sharing the love of Jesus, you have blessed me and my family. Shalom.

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    1. Hi there, friend. Wow, thank you for such kind words. It means the world. And praise God about your sister! that brings my heart so much joy. truly. thanks for the update. Sending so much love and hugs. xoxo

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  24. This is so beautiful! Pleeeeease let us all know if you get that part – that’s awesome. ❤️
    I so agree. As Christians, we are new in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) and not just the people we “try” to be, if that makes any sense. We are loved unconditionally. We are forgiven. And that…that is amazing. Thanks for this!

    Liked by 1 person

  25. Great post 🙂 I hope you get the part as well 🙂 When it comes to three words to describe oneself, the only thing I can say about that is three words is not enough 🙂 As you say, everybody is complex in describing the type of person they are as you so eloquently put it 🙂 Nevertheless, the three words you did come up with to describe yourself is perfect 🙂 Anyway, keep up the great work as always 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

  26. I really needed to read this. I really loved the quote, “Don’t judge someone’s story, by the chapter you walk in on.” I think it goes so well with the clients I have at work and even my co-workers, because everyone has some sort of past, that gets them where they are today! My three words in middle through high school were definitely Shining Through Pain, and I think now it would be Overcomer, Compassionate, and Survivor. Loved this post!

    Liked by 2 people

  27. Not enough likes for this one, Ana. You are so perceptive, and you write so well. And best of luck with the pilot! Fingers, toes, eyes…well maybe not the eyes, crossed…

    Like

  28. beautiful, courageous, compassionate..describes you . Aladonza ( the slut/prostitute ) in the play Man of La Manch, asked Quioxte to see her as she really was.. he replied, “I see beauty, I see virtue, I see my lady Dulcinea.”

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    1. Wow, thank you so much Jack. That is so kind. And sounds like an awesome play—I actually haven’t seen it. I know, an actor and I haven’t seen that classic. Perhaps I need to remedy that:) thanks again friend! Hugs xox

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  30. I dislike those canned questions…when I was in college the people giving us interviewing advice were always telling us what to expect, and would say when you are asked what your greatest weakness is to say something like, “I work too hard” I thought that was ridiculous, and when I was in a job and had to interview people I just tried to get to know them and see what interested them and whether they were a good fit. It made more sense to me that to ask people things that had no good answer. On the question you were asked I am sure they were just randomly looking to see if you could adapt on the fly and be a fast thinker…kind of like the “tell me the first thing that comes to mind when I say….” game. I hope you get the part if it is one that you truly think you will enjoy and that you will grow from it.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks Charlene:) I appreciate that so much. You’re right-those standard questions are so surface level-you want to get to know the real person-not just what they think you want to hear. Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox

      Liked by 1 person

  31. I don’t know about my three words but I immediately thought of these for you…”Beauty Beyond Bones.” 🙂

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  32. Wonderful post! As usual, it’s got me to thinking. And… I didn’t realize your career choice is acting. Stage, big screen? Now you’ve got me really curious 🙂

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    1. Thanks gd! I appreciate it:) well I grew up stage and am making the switch to screen–but then it’s a tough biz so I’m not putting my cart before the horse! Lol thanks for stopping by xox

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  33. What a great post! So happy you were able to think of a something despite the fact that you were put on the spot. I’m not sure that i’d be able to say anything that I felt was truly me. But from what I’ve read in your posts, if someone ever asks that again, you should consider saying: powerful, devoted, authentic. Because those words definitely describe you too. =) Hope you get the part!

    Liked by 1 person

  39. Great read thank you for sharing!

    Answering your question: I am blessed

    Regardless of circumstance a truth for me is that I am blessed. I regret that my behavior in those circumstances often do not reflect how I am blessed. The shear fact that I am saved despite myself should be the most important element in all marketing of self.

    Again really great post thank you

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  41. This is just the post I needed to read this morning, as I start my day. And I think I’m going to read it again now! Thank you 🙂 And I hope you get the part. But even if you don’t, you have already taken something good from the incident / encounter. It is refreshing and inspiring to see someone who does that. I must learn to do more of it.

    Like

    1. Hi friend! Oh good! I’m glad it struck a chord with you. Thank you for your kind words. You’re right-no matter what happens, life is good and I have a lot to be thankful for:) thanks for stopping by! Have an absolutely beautiful day! Hugs xox

      Liked by 1 person

      3. Do you have to take in 3500 calories a day as well? I know I do my CP cerebral palsy has me burn off 4 times as much energy is everyone else. Even though I am running jumping and working out and still eating like a horse I can’t gain an ounce without two protein shakes a day that’s 100 grams of protein perdate on shakes alone

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      9. Hi 🙂 I have a question for you buddddy! To me it seems like you love to write. You’re a very deep thinker. Maybe that’s why I’m your buddy 🙂 I also notice that you speak strongly about your faith. I admire that. My question to you have you ever thought about writing for a newspaper? I know you may be worried about your name and fame getting out so what about a pen name? Just a thought…. Have a great day I hope it’s full of great joy for you.

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      11. Dear BBB, how are you? The reason I am sending you this message is because, I have an issue going on with my stomach right now I can’t eat much I don’t know why. I’m at the hospital now trying to figure out what’s wrong. As I am waiting for the MD. I started to Google anorexia. I nearly weeped for you. I don’t know who you are but you certainly are more than beautiful. You’re special to me and to God.

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      13. My dear friend I’m released from the hospital but I’m under a bit of stress as you can imagine. I want say that I greatly appreciate you having to pray for me. In general I appreciate you . I don’t care what your name is brother at scary Susie Jenny I don’t care doesn’t matter to me I appreciate you and everything you’ve done for me just put simply writing. The Gratitude I have for you I can’t express in words or emoticons so then what shall I say.? I would say the Lord himself so he’s very proud over you and I would say that you our friendship and because of that I love you watch the same way God loves you

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      17. I want to let you in on a little secret. Tonight I called the prayer line at my church in the US and through prayer my stomach has been see you I am now hungry and feel like I can eat a horse okay baby because of time of season I’ll settle for an Easter Bunny thank you so much for your prayers as well may you be blessed and walk in the ways of the lord always and forever more

        Like

  43. I echo everyone’s thoughts about the audition. I think II have read between the lines. So to speak 😀 I get a sense that it won’t be the end of the world if you don’t get the part because one question from someone put you on the spot and prompted you to question who you are and I think that out weighs the value of an audition. Some people never know who they are until their dying breath – Auditions come and go -and will always be there. Finding your true spirit and what makes you tick is the true winner here. Break a leg 😉

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    1. Thanks Daisy! I appreciate it:) wow what an awesome perspective. Thank you for this. You’re right-finding my true spirit is definitely important. Thanks for stopping by! Hope you have a beautiful day! Hugs!

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  48. Hi there! Such a lovely post! Firstly, congrats on the amazing audition! That is such wonderful news! 😊 *hugs*
    I think that I would struggle just as much to come up with three words to define myself. Some days, I feel resilient, blessed, and growing. Today, those words are, terrified, small, and weak. I had a pretty rough couple of weeks at work, and there are some pretty huge obstacles ahead of me. Frankly, I’m pretty much in agony about it all, and I’m struggling to trust God. What do we do when we are not the ones who know ourselves the best? My psychiatrist and my nutritionist see me much differently than I see myself. They wish that I had more confidence. I know that God sees me far, far differently than I see myself. I am just praying and hoping that this whole thing is another step in my journey and that it starts to make some sense soon.
    Btw – I love the little pic with the words “Don’t judge someone’s story by the chapter you walk in on.” That is a message to keep at heart always! Thank you!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hey hey Lulu! Thanks! Yeah I was pretty excited about it☺️ oh girl I’m giving s big hugs through the computer right now. You’re right-if only we could see ourselves -and each other- through God’s eyes. I’m sure His words are much different than ours too-perhaps something like, precious, worthy, mine. ☺️what a comforting thought indeed! Hang in there friend. I know it’s hard to trust God, but His plans and his timing are perfect. Love ya girl! Prayin for ya xoxox

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  50. I hate interview/audition questions that keep replaying in your mind but here you’ve gone and made an awesome blog from it! Thank you for sharing your thoughts. My first three were mother, reader, believer. For an interview I’d try more for caring, organised and passionate.

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