From our ‘blogger’ Lisa Butler
I dread this question. The one question evokes so many emotions in me when I get asked “what’s wrong with your face?”. It makes my heart drop and I feel embarrassed, awkward, shy and basically wishing the ground would open up beneath me.
I never mind talking to anyone about my birthmark. Sometimes it’s nice that someone has taken an interest and are genuinely curious. I think it’s the actual wording of this question that gets to me.
There is nothing wrong with my face. There is nothing wrong with anyone’s face. Each and everyone of us are different, and just because I have a birthmark, it doesn’t mean there is something wrong with my face.
I have been asked this question so many times. Sometimes it can be followed by a silly comment such as ‘I thought you’d been in a fight’ (this comment relates to my larger lower lip), or sometimes they will try and make a jockey comment and laugh, even after I’ve explained it’s a port wine stain birthmark.
When I get asked what’s wrong with my face, I always politely and calmly explain it’s a birthmark. Even if I’m feeling embarrassed by such a direct question, often from a complete stranger. I put a smile on and I don’t let the anxiousness show on my face.
My children have also faced the question, “what’s wrong with your mums face?”. Mostly from their friends or other children from school. It makes me so proud that they just explain it’s a birthmark and I was born with it. They don’t get annoyed or embarrassed, they are just matter of fact. My children will simply explain it’s just a birthmark and I’ve had it since I was born.
But, right now, in the comfort of my own home, I know that when someone asks me this they are just curious about my birthmark. It’s their way of asking about it, and is ultimately a good thing. Not everyone will know what a birthmark is, so normally when I get asked this question it’s because they are just curious, they are not trying to be mean or insulting.