Dear Beyoncé,

Posted on by beautybeyondbones

There’s something really beautiful about humility.

I’ve been kind of on a pop culture “fast” recently. Not by choice…

Ever since my mom had her stroke over Christmas, we literally haven’t turned on the TV. Which is crazy, considering how glued I was to the news during the election.

But for whatever reason, tonight my parents and I decided to watch the Grammy’s.

And that may or may not have been because I thought the Biebs was performing 🙂

But I digress.

Going into the night, I had obviously heard about Beyoncé‘s attention-grabbing nude pregnancy photo shoot, but to be honest, I have so many (more important) things to occupy my time right now.

But her Grammy’s performance…..daaaaaang.

I honestly had to take a moment to collect myself afterwards.

And not because I was so moved by her “brilliance.”


I needed to just get away from the sheer glorification of self we collectively had to witness.

Now, let me begin by saying this: I have nothing against the Queen Bey. I love her music. But I’ve always said, “I don’t worship at her altar.” – Kind of half-kidding.


But tonight….that was actually literally accurate, as Beyoncé was adorned and bedecked in a full on personification of a cross between a Hindu goddess and the blessed Virgin Mary, complete with a golden, saintly crown (that was eerily similar to a monstrance.)


My dad watched 30 seconds and said, “This is making a mockery of religion,” as he got up and left the room.

But that’s for another post. I’m not even going to go into that tonight.

What irked me about the performance was that she chose to portray herself as a literal deity.

Since being home with my mom, I’ve been spending, literally, every waking hour with her – from 6am until I pass out at 11pm. (That is, unless I’m up until 1am writing a post!)

But I’ve been my mom’s “wingwoman” – attending all of her bible studies and book clubs and social gatherings with her.

And Friday morning, we were at book club, and the book was The Hidden Power of Kindness.

And uncannily, the chapter they were on was on caring for the sick.

I kid you. Frickin. Not.


But there was a powerful line in the book that said, “Sickness makes people more humble.”

Beyoncé’s performance tonight, it was all about motherhood, as she just announced last week that she was expecting twins.

So this performance was a celebration of womanhood and specifically, motherhood – and elevating herself to goddess-status because of her pregnancy state.

But I’m here to tell you – what I’ve learned from my own mother in this season helping her recover from her stroke, is that the most powerful “glorification of motherhood” is when she is the most meek and humble.

In fact, the best exemplification and celebration of mothers would never be the glorification and deification of self, but rather, humbling oneself and serving and loving others.

Seeing my mom, in this vulnerable state, she has never been more beautiful to me. Ever.

All her life, she has never asked to be “adored” or “worshiped” because of her status as “mother.” In fact, just the opposite. She has always sought to give of herself to others. And even now, when she can’t really do that at the moment, that humility makes her all the more beautiful and lovable.


There was just such a stark contrast between seeing Beyoncé, adorned in a golden halo crown and dressed as a deity, glorifying herself because she’s a mother and a woman; and then looking over at my beautiful mother, fighting for her life to regain her memory and her speech after her stroke. That woman, is worthy of all the praise in the world, and yet would never ask for it, nor covet it.

I’m not bashing Beyoncé. Truly, I’m not. She’s talented and I’m sure, a terrific mother to Blue, and the babies in her belly. This is not meant to be a judgment on that. It is merely an observation.

Looking at my mother tonight, on the couch, concentrating on absorbing the sights and sounds coming at her from the TV, – she was absolutely radiant, giving Beyoncé a run for her money.

There’s something really beautiful about humility.

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beautybeyondbones

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

493 thoughts on “Dear Beyoncé,”

  1. I didn’t watch the Grammy’s, but I have heard a lot about Beyoncé’s performance. I thought your words were beautiful!! There is something truly beautiful about being humble, and I think it is something we all need to strive to be better at. Praying for your mom and your family. God bless

    Liked by 1 person

  4. This is why I love your blog and I’ve missed reading your honesty and humor. I didn’t even watch the show, but for a while now, there has just been something about Beyoncé that doesn’t sit well with me. And I used to love her, but she’s just so different now. I love your observation of your mother and that you are able to realize that even through this difficult time, your mother is beautiful. In being kind, and humble, and never asking that a crown be bestowed upon her head for it. I love this post, as I do everything you write. I got that one day we can return to a world that smiles on kindness and humility. Thanks for the share girl!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks again Celestial. Yeah, I think through all of this, my mom’s beauty has shone even brighter. There was another line in that book that says when people are sick, the qualities we love become even more lovable. And I think that’s so true. I hope that too- what a world that would be 🙂 hope you’re having a great Tuesday! Xox

      Liked by 1 person

      1. We live in this world of putting famous people on a pedestal like idols don’t we? To see recognition of the beauty in the heroes we have around us every day is beautiful xx

        Liked by 1 person

  11. Great post and very thought provoking comments as well. ❤
    I'm with you on this one. My mum had two strokes recently and I'm experiencing the same as you. Thank you for sharing!

    Liked by 2 people

  14. I remember when Madonna was expecting and the media circus hyped it all so much, you would have thought no-one had ever had a baby before. It’s part of the manipulative commercial game that their creativity is promoted through. We don’t have to buy into it and beauty is found in so many simple moments. The love flowing in your life is profound. ❤

    Liked by 3 people

  16. I did not see the performance, but have heard commentary on both sides. I am not a fan of her music and never have been. If I were, this performance would have placed me exactly where I have always stood…not being a fan. I agree that the best celebration of motherhood is demonstrated in the pleasure and delight one receives from living out that role. Your mother, my mother and many others personify the very definition and true intention of motherhood. Those are just my thoughts…Thanks for sharing.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hey Sean, thanks so much for this thoughtful reflection. Yeah, I agree – mothers definitely *should* be celebrated, as they bring life into the world! I just didn’t really appreciate that approach. Thanks for stopping by! big hugs xox

      Liked by 1 person

  17. I watched withmy sister last night and we both said the same same thing! Never seen such self-gratification and self-importance in my life! Humble she is not! 😣🙄 prayers for a speedy and smooth recovery for your mum 🙏🏾

    Liked by 1 person

  21. Loved reading this! I have always felt this way about celebrities in general. People tend to put them on some kind of pedestal. ‘Entertainment Tonight headlines! Kim Kardashian is having a baby!’ Oh my gosh! A human is reproducing (and is probably going the child a name from a different direction on the compass).

    People tend to be part of the world; I try to stay of the world. As a Christian, I am a child of the kingdom and not of this world.

    Liked by 1 person

  22. I listened to a brief interview with Beyonce’s father. He seemed so down to earth and grateful for Blue and for the new babies coming that I thought I might have been to harsh on the woman when I saw the nude photos. These types of “events” are so publicity, marketing oriented that I am just saddened by them. I don’t watch ANY of the awards shows. The amount of money spent on self-aggrandizement is just sickening. The shows are just huge expensive marketing ploys. Think of all the good that be done with the millions spent on producing those extravaganzas. I am not as kind as you when it comes to these people. Pretty is as pretty does, and I see nothing but ugly. I personally know one of the people who worked behind the scenes with the Bieber entourage. He is not kind, not nice, not generous. His success has gone to his head to say the least.
    Ok, rant over. I am so glad that you are there for your mother. I, too, had the greatest mom ever. She was a class act in every regard, and she, too, lived to take care of others quietly behind the scenes never expecting recognition much less adulation. She passed at the age of 94 of metastasized breast cancer. It went to her bones and eventually every organ in her body. I was so blessed to have her come to my home to live out her last months and days. While it was the saddest time of my life, I treasure every moment of the time we spent together. We became closer than ever before. It has been 12 years since she passed, but not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. Sometimes, I wish she had not been so tough, loving, resilient, kind, hard working, and stern. LOL I don’t try to be her. Measuring up to that legacy would be impossible, but maybe I am evolved 🙂 enough to not embarrass her.
    I had a marvelous support system in my husband and children. I know that I neglected them, but they understood that the only person I had eyes for at the time was Mom. We did manage to put on a graduation party for my oldest son in that time, and yes, I nearly lost it. Well, honestly, I did lose it, complete melt down that was aimed directly at my husband. We survived ❤ A book called Final Gifts by Callanan and Kelley, two hospice nurses, gave me the insight to understand what my mother was going through to be supportive and helpful to her as she negotiated her final days.

    Keep up the good work. I don't read everyone of your blogs, but I read some. I admire your strength and your faith. I consider myself a recovering Catholic struggling to recover from the damage done by too much, too early. Reading your journey helps sometimes to keep me on mine.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Hi Cynthia, thank you so much for this beautiful heart felt response. I am so sorry to hear that your mother went through that. Gosh that just breaks my heart. I’m so glad, though, that you were able to be with her during her final chapter. What a gift that was for her, and it sounds like, for you too. And graduation melt down or not:), I’ve found that when we’re going through something so difficult and life altering, the people around you extend a special sort of grace that just happens organically, as they see you giving all of what you have out for another person. Anywho. Your response really touched my heart. Thank you for sharing. Hugs and love xox

      Liked by 1 person

  24. I think she was extra being that so many young women think she is “the gospel” . I hope it doesn’t give girls boujee ideas on motherhood, because yes the children come first. Perfect way of addressing it without getting mad.

    Liked by 1 person

  25. A friend and I were discussing that there was something disturbing and over the top about the performance. You hit the nail on the head. While I believe it’s wonderful to celebrate womanhood, motherhood, and all the other “hoods”, we must be careful not to glorify ourselves above The Giver of every good and perfect gift. We need to focus on praising The Creator instead of the creation. Thank you for sharing your wise perspective and insight.

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  26. You know, I’ve rolled my eyes occasionally at the excesses of our celebrities and the media that enshrines them. But I’ve never blamed them. I blame us. The world gives us Miley Cyrus because we watch her. It gives us Fifty Shades of Grey and Hustler because we read it. It gives us House of Cards (and Transformers 19 or whatever we’re on right now) because we show up. Thousands are going to perish in Myanmar this year, but we’re not going to know, because people want to be entertained instead of convicted. Here, more about what Emma Watson had for breakfast!

    Instead of trying to fix the low value of celebrity culture, maybe we should fix ourselves.

    Hmm…

    I think you’ve just germinated my next blog post, Caralyn. Thanks!

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Hey Brandon! Thank you so much for his thoughtful response. You’re so right! We show up, but the tickets and the tee shirt! It’s no wonder the media keeps cranking it out! We should vote with our pocketbooks 🙂 I don’t know what Myanmar is, but thanks for the great food for thought! Hugs and love xox

      Liked by 1 person

  27. Hi BBB,

    Amen. That was our pastor’s sermon as well. True humility is asking for God’s will and not our own. He sees the quiet seemingly unimportant things as very relevant. Your point is right on. Put Jests first, not self. That goes south real fast.

    Thank you,

    Gary On Mon, Feb 13, 2017 at 4:02 PM BeautyBeyondBones wrote:

    > beautybeyondbones posted: “There’s something really beautiful about > humility. I’ve been kind of on a pop culture “fast” recently. Not by > choice… Ever since my mom had her stroke over Christmas, we literally > haven’t turned on the TV. Which is crazy, considering how glued I was to ” >

    Liked by 2 people

  28. Can’t believe I’m about to comment on a Beyoncé blog….in her defense.

    I am far from the biggest Beyoncé fan, and am not wowed by the entirety that is Lemonade. But I found this performance quite inspiring and celebratory, and not glorifying at all. I believe some of your impression is based in lack of information. The image is based of the African goddess Oshun, who is representative of life and fertility. I can’t think of a better image for a hugely pregnant woman to personify than a fertility goddess in her image. Also, if you paid attention to the digital imagery, you’d have noticed the still of herself, her mother and her daughter–an image celebrating motherhood, Black motherhood, Black womanhood and generational love. If anything, she glorified her OWN mother for the example she set and continues to set for her, her sister, and all of their children. There are precious few celebrations of Black women in their roles as mothers–we are so often portrayed in harsh, neglectful and derelict lights that the public at large begin to believe it of all of us.

    I believe your observation has merit–I just think the path your traveled to get to it is a bit off course. Allow us our moment in the sun.

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  29. YES! Celebrities giving themselves status as “gods” is appalling, to say the least. These people thinking they should be worshiped is so wrong, so so wrong. I think we could all do with a media/celebrity fast and a lot more Jesus. They’ve begun to fancy themselves as people to be followed and believed and experts on politics, religion, and everything else. YOU are one to be admired, taking care of your mother. I took care of mine while she was dying of cancer and, you’re right, it is truly humbling and a blessing. May God give you peace and rest!

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    1. Thanks so much Tracy. I really appreciate that. And gosh, what a kind thing to say. I’m just grateful to be able to spend this extra time with my mom. What a gift you were able to give your mother. So glad you stopped by. Hugs and love xox

      Liked by 1 person

  30. Can’t believe I’m about to comment on a Beyoncé blog….in her defense. I am far from the biggest Beyoncé fan, and am not wowed by the entirety that is Lemonade. But I found this performance quite inspiring and celebratory, and not glorifying at all. I believe some of your impression is based in lack of information. The image is based of the African goddess Oshun, who is representative of life and fertility. I can’t think of a better image for a hugely pregnant woman to personify than a fertility goddess in her image. Also, if you paid attention to the digital imagery, you’d have noticed the still of herself, her mother and her daughter–an image celebrating motherhood, Black motherhood, Black womanhood and generational love. If anything, she glorified her OWN mother for the example she set and continues to set for her, her sister, and all of their children. There are precious few celebrations of Black women in their roles as mothers–we are so often portrayed in harsh, neglectful and derelict lights that the public at large begin to believe it of all of us. I believe your observation has merit–I just think the path your traveled to get to it is a bit off course. Allow us our moment in the sun.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much for your thoughtful response. I really appreciate you sharing this perspective and insight. A lot of really great food for thought. I think Beyonce is a terrific performer and she is definitely a strong female role model to many. I’m glad that you found her performance to be inspiring. I definitely could appreciate the message she was trying to communicate, (motherhood should be celebrated!!) – I just wish she would have gone about it with a slightly different approach. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts. I appreciate you stopping by! big hugs xox 🙂

      Like

  31. Completely beautiful. Yes, motherhood is ALL ABOUT humility as I cleaned my 3 1/2 year olds poo out of the bath this morning. I dare say Beyonce does this…

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  32. They say politics is the ability to tell people to go to hell and them looking forward to the trip. I think you did that quite nicely here for Beyonce. Hope she reads your post.

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    1. Oh gosh, Dan! That was *defffffinitely* not my intention! 😬😬😬Yikes! I think she is a very talented performer and good person and mother, but the performance of self deification was not my cuppa tea. Anywho:) hope you’re having a great Tuesday! Thanks for reading! Hugs and love xox

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      1. Well, Caralyn, you could’ve fooled me! I had a dream about Beyonce one time. There wasn’t much to it, though. Definitely not one of the better dreams. I had to read what you wrote a couple times. I almost read defecation. I don’t know why, though. I had a high school teacher that liked that word (or “defecate,” that is.). I just barely wrote a post about her. Now you have context if you ever read that post. Defecation…Ah, Caralyn. Oh, yea, deification, isn’t it? Whoops.

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  34. Well said! Humility is far more valuable than many stones and jewels or gold. The Bible reminds us many times its is foolish or just plain not smart at all to put ourselves on a pedestal whether in words, deeds, attitude or attire for which one of us can sustain ourselves, much less another.

    Stay grounded and learn what you can from your mothers example. She sounds like a great woman.

    Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.—1 Peter 3:3-4

    Not to us, Lord, not to us
    but to Your name be the glory,
    because of Your love and faithfulness.
    —Psalm 115:1

    Liked by 2 people

  35. oh so so well said, as always!!!!!!!!!!!! I was very skeptical about that performance as well- but that is a whole other story (religious-wise) but humility- it is definitely a trait I have learnt observing my own mother.

    society today- everyone feels they need to be recognized or heard or applauded and appreciated. Who are we wanting this recognition from? God does not work that way.

    Anyway- well said!!! XO

    Liked by 1 person

  37. Is there a more selfless act than motherhood? I think only one in history…. Great post and I’ve never really worshiped at the altar of Queen Bey…. Bono from U2 on the other hand….

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      1. Yeah. Quite honestly it is more of a concert than an awards show now adays. It was a great show there. So much talent out there. YouTube some of the songs if you want to hear some good music! I really liked the Fighter by Carrie Underwood 🙂 Hugs and love xox

        Like

  39. Good for you Krystal, for once again rising well above the questionable intellect and priorities of your generation to recognize what is truly good and important in a person’s character. You are wise beyond your words (which makes you stand out among bloggers). My wife and I deliberately skipped the Grammy’s even though we wanted to see some of the “lesser” awards (i.e. Country, Faith). We knew the political statements would overshadow the essence of the show, as they will for the Academy Awards later this month. I’m glad to hear we also missed out on several instances of self-worship. No thank you. What a shame to have to search far and wide for the “humble and kind” among today’s celebrities. I would rather read about the “real” in people, like what you and your mother are experiencing. Stay strong in your journey.

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    1. Oh gosh, Dave, thank you so much. What a kind and encouraging response. Yeah, I wish we could see more of the real in celebrities as well. Can’t deny their talent though! Wow! Big hugs xox – Caralyn 🙂

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  40. WOW! Your observation was thought-provoking. Yes, your mother is a queen as well for all she has done, is currently going through, and for constantly walking in humility. I can see how what Beyonce was portraying can be misinterpreted and in some instances idolized for the wrong thing.

    Beyonce is one of my favorite vocalists! I see her as an artistic musician that knows how to strike up a phenomenal performance. Lately, she has shown more of her human side then ever before. I think people miss that. She tries to use her platform to relate and does it in a compelling way.

    I pray that the world realizes that she is human. We all are capable of making an impact on the world in whatever avenue we choose. Doing it well and doing it humbly will reach farther I believe.

    Just like the way you do it.

    -JV

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    1. Hey JV! Oh gosh, thank you so much. Yeah I love Beyoncé’s music too. She is incredibly talented, this performance just rubbed me the wrong way. But I can definitely see the point she was trying to make, and yes, mothers and women should be celebrated, but I just wish that she would have gone about it a slightly different way. But you’re right- that is not a reflection on her mothering or anything like that. And I hope I didn’t seem judgmental like that. I was just struck wth the juxtaposition between the mother on the tv and the mother on my couch. Hahahah. Love reading your thoughts! You always bring such a great perspective to the table. Hugs and love xox

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Your viewpoint came across just fine! I am glad you talked about it. The “B-hive” gets a little temperamental haha.

        Thank-you for the encouragement! I am known to bring quite the perspective to the table. I’m just being little ‘ol me.

        Thanks!!

        -JV

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  41. She fell low in ratings on msn polls, etc. prior to the awards. I don’t believe it is racial issue as it seems Adele implied, I believe it as a lot more to do with humility, or lack there of. Self confidence is one thing, acting above others… you loose respect. Nice article. I am happy to read your mom is getting out! Cute picture of you above. Make sure you are taking care of yourself.

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    1. Thank you so much:) I really appreciate your kind words about my mom. You’re right, the race issue literally never even entered my mind until the following morning when I read adele’s acceptance speech! (I fell asleep on the couch haha) But yeah, I don’t know, I just don’t even see race when I look at a person. People are people are people – no matter their color of skin, religion, country of origin. People are just people and every single person deserves love and dignity. For me, my “qualms” if you will- was just portraying oneself as a God. Any glory that we may get in this life should point to Him, not ourselves. Hope that made sense haha Have a great Valentine’s Day! Hugs and love xox

      Liked by 1 person

  42. Its funny how things that were once important to you completely disappear when you are caring for a loved one. Great post and I can totally relate.

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  43. This post was very thought-provoking, thanks for that! It helped me to open my mind to a different perspective. Sending my best wishes 😊

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  44. Yay for your Mum getting better!
    Totally agree with your Dad – that was a performance all not worth watching. The “memememememepickme” culture is wearying. Yep, cool, she’s pregnant..but I didn’t need to see her underwear nor did I need to feel that she cheapened my faith either.
    I thought at first glance of a still that it was a version of a Russian icon…with those neck rings some African cultures wear.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much! yeah, she’s getting better every day 🙂 haha the “memememepickme” culture — that description made me chuckle, and is spot on. And i’m guilty of it myself too!! Yeah, i think her costume was a blend of a few different religious/cultural figures. hope you have a great evening! hugs xox

      Liked by 1 person

  45. People see the pictures of saints and suppose that the halos are just an artistic contrivance.

    NOT!

    If you have to wear an accessory, it’s just wishful thinking. Our entertainment industry generates more heat than light; more chaos than warmth. I’m glad that your mother has you to reflect her glow.

    Here’s my favorite picture of a goddess mother (I haven’t read the article, btw): http://www.piercedhearts.org/hearts_jesus_mary/heart_mary/virgin_birth_mangan.htm

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  49. Many of the mothers who I look up to have one thing in common: Their humility. They don’t look for credit or praise. They just want to do what’s best for their kids, even when it means they have to go without, lose sleep or skip a meal. It’s the kind of the humility that reminds me of the Blessed Virgin Mary who was present throughout Christ’s life but never sought to stand in the spotlight. 🙂

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    1. Thank you so much for this thoughtful response. You’re right, humility is a beautiful beautiful thing. That’s so true, too. Mary said “yes.” Always. “Do whatever He tells you.” That was my favorite line of hers. Thanks for stopping by!big hugs xox

      Liked by 1 person

  50. Very soon, dear BBB, we’ll be lifting holy hands of gratitude to the Most High, by the power of the Holy Ghost in the mighty name of Jesus to celebrate your Mum’s total healing. Did you not go through some hard times health-wise? Did you not come out victorious? Your Mum is well again, chatting with you and her husband, your Dad once again. Amen. I’m a man of great faith. I believe that you believe too. Amen!

    Beyoncé? Whatever she does as a star will not come to me as a surprise at all. My post, “THE MUSIC STAR,” (4 parts) explains it all (please do find time to read it). The halo is nothing but Nimrod, the first ever earthly king and he is also Baal, the sun god. Her wife, Semiramis, is the moon goddess. This religion has been passed down human generations, in various forms all because Lucifer is the god of this terra firma. Many religions that use the ‘star’, ‘crescent’ and ‘halo’ roundness most definitely know what they’re doing. Satan has taken over, using the opium called religion. Jesus is Lord! Amen!

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