Photo provided by www.oprah.com
As one chapter in American Television History closes…my beginning manifests itself after watching Oprah’s last episode. Unfortunately, my job did not allow me to watch LIVE. Thank goodness for technology and the DVR. I watched Oprah from early on. I can’t recall the first episode I caught but remember coming home after school and turning her on to see what she had in store. Tonight I couldn’t help but hang on every word Ms. Winfrey blessed me with yet again. I learned over the years about gratitude, care, compassion, love, and her words “self-worth”! As she spoke, I couldn’t help but reflect on my life and what “platform” I have brought to those I came in contact with. For those who don’t know me well, I have been blessed and have no complaints. I don’t attend church anymore. Not for the reason of disbelief but for the reason of poor time management in this area. I pray more than you would ever know. I speak to our mighty God whenever I pass a holy monument, structure, place of worship or grave site. I say a prayer for all mankind and bless all I come in contact with.
As the show went on, I began to think about my “validation” and the platform I use to touch people. I am a firm believer that you are responsible for your actions and how you treat others. I have and will never take for granted the gift God has given me. Yes, I live two lives. I am an Airman in the United States Air Force. I signed up to protect and serve our country so we can all continue to live free. I came from a military background and have maintained that lifestyle regardless of my other life and passion as a Celebrity Makeup Artist and Owner of ink…cosmetics. The loss of my father made me who I am today! I am stronger, independent, unselfish, and I open my heart and home to everyone I meet. Yes, there have been numerous occasions where “some” have taken advantage of my actions. I have recently seen these individuals’ true intentions and colors but have chosen to bat my lashes and continue on. Never changing who I am inside or my genuine character! Perseverance is my best friend!
I have never needed the friend counters on Myspace, number of followers on Twitter, or liked page numbers on Facebook, to validate who I am, what my business is or will do for the men and women I encounter on a daily basis. With my cosmetics line launching soon, I began to envision my platform and validation. It is…my life! The way I live my life and interact with women and men who don’t believe they truly are as beautiful on the outside as they exude on the inside; where God has blessed me with the hands and talent to pull out “everyone’s” true beauty as a makeup artist. The lives I touch or come across because of a crime that was committed where I have to investigate and hope to gather all the evidence needed for prosecution as a criminal investigator in the AF. I don’t do it for trophies or “kudos”! I don’t do it for the money, “fame” or lack thereof! I do it for the honest and good in people! I do it for the sincere gratefulness from every client in my makeup chair that takes a double look at their reflection after I have completed their look! I do it for the mother of a deceased son who says thanks for caring about us after he’s gone and assisting in the justice he deserved! I thank everyone who has helped me become who I am today! Who has helped me along the way! Like my Mother, Grandmother, Godmother, Husband, Children, family and friends! I include Celebrities, businesses, and fans who believed in me, spread the word and who gave me a chance even though I am an “Airman” first and artist second. I thank those from MTV, VH1, Latina Magazine, the numerous Pageant Queens, Wardrobe and Hair Stylists, Media contributors, Photographers, DC Life Magazine, DC on Heels, local and known designers like my dear friend and biggest believer Indashio, and most recently my new partners at W Salon, VA! Of course could not have the wonderful life I do now without the spirit of my father and the many blessings of God!
I ask that you all reflect and count your blessings, never take anything for granted, and be honest, true and continuously grateful! Continue the 25 year trend from our dear television inspiration Oprah Winfrey and live your best life always! THANK YOU OPRAH for bringing each and every “aha” moment to me and the millions of people across the world!
XXO Besos! Remember to keep cultivating your creativity! <3 Anna Castillo
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