Shakeerah Oatis

Perfectly Flawed Shakeerah Oatis

Author Shakeerah Oatis admits the fact that she is "Perfectly Flawed". She wants readers to do the same. She shares her own journey to overcoming insecurities to encourage readers to use the negativities in their lives as stepping stones to reach new heights. "Perfectly Flawed" is a book based on not being perfect and living up to society's standards of waking up flawless. Oatis observes that society paints this picture that everybody has to be perfect and without blemish. She cites the African American community where to have a flaw like mental illness, rape and incest. Family secrets are only to be kept within the household because it is taboo to talk about these things. While the perception of a perfect family is to be portrayed to the outside world, keeping secrets only leads to emotional breakdown. She adds, though, that it is okay to go to God and seek outside help. This book points out flaws and emphasizes that no one is perfect and the character realizes she is perfectly flawed. By stressing her own struggles with acceptance of her flaws, the author shows readers that for them to do the same, they shall embrace their own faults to eventually shine. Just like diamonds that form with intense heat, people too can shine when they use the negativities and pressure in life. Oatis is a proof that accepting one's self as "Perfectly Flawed" molds individuals to become winners in life.