“When the war has took its part
When the world has dealt its cards
If the hand is hard
Together we’ll mend your heart”
-From “Umbrella” by Rihanna
“Umbrella” was my first introduction to Rihanna’s music. I was taken by the song’s simultaneous kind spirit yet underlying strength. It didn’t feel like a typical relationship song to me; it felt like an encouraging song about navigating life in general. I was completely enamored by the music video as well. I feel like Rihanna can portray so many vibes, some of which are quite sensual, and yet she always embodies an exquisite presence of both unwavering innocence and iconic personal strength.
Later, I was navigating circumstances that were very difficult for me to process. I was too afraid to label the circumstances as abuse, too insecure to ever imagining I had a voice, and I felt too alone to ever expect someone to understand how I felt. Then I heard “Love The Way You Lie” on the radio. I appreciate Eminem’s performance in the song, but Rihanna’s performance just felt so transcendent and like a sanctuary from all my confusion. Rihanna’s voice, her presence, her depth, how she could express so many complex thoughts and emotions in such a few masterfully chosen words helped me to not feel so alone. I felt so relieved that someone understood so much that I had never been able to find the words for or to understand within myself.
I also heard “Monster” at about the same time. Prior to that song, I would have never used the word “monster” to describe someone. I would see the positive in someone and if there wasn’t a lot of positive to be found I would create some positive to see. Sort of like, “I am so grateful they are not any worse.” I feel like excessive optimism was a coping mechanism to help me survive in circumstances where there was not a lot of positivity to be found. But when Rihanna sang with such an authentic grasp of reality, I was riveted and encouraged to do the same in my own way.
I then discovered Savage X Fenty and Fenty Beauty where I experienced the thought and quality and confidence she shares through her vision. I love surrounding myself in her sports apparel. I am heavier than I have ever been and even when I find a size that technically fits me I feel like I look awful. Except for Savage X Fenty. I feel like not just the sizing is inclusive but the flattery is inclusive as well. I feel so encouraged to wear clothes that come from Rihanna’s vision of empowerment.
With Fenty Beauty makeup, I so enjoy the experience of wearing makeup related to someone of so much beauty and strength and profound depths of understanding. Hair and makeup has always been something I have struggled with. I have bought countless products to try to look even a shred as nice as models in a magazine and then I look in the mirror and see what a failure I was at applying them the same way. Fenty Beauty products finally made it easier for me to buy a handful of items from one brand, use them easily, and feel so beautiful.
I am continually overcome by the grace of Rihanna’s spirit and inspired by the beauty of her personhood. Rihanna gives me hope that circumstances that look incredibly hopeless can indeed be overcome.
Rihanna’s got this!
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