The story behind the video.
I am utterly overwhelmed and humbled by the response to this video. At the time I am writing this, it has amassed over 2 million views on Facebook with thousands of comments, messages, and emails to go along with it. I think it’s time to share the story behind this viral video for those who are interested.
***The video has since garnered nearly 100 million view***
I recently was honored with YouTube Next Up. As part of the award I was invited to YouTube Space LA to a one week film school boot camp. We were to film a video there, but no kitchen was available. I was at a loss for what I could possibly film without a kitchen. And that is when the comment happened. It didn’t hurt my feelings and it didn’t surprise me either. Lots of people have commented about my gray hair over the years and I have never been ashamed to share my reasons. I decided to answer the nasty commenter and then share the comment and answer on my personal Facebook page. The response from my friends and family there was overwhelming. At that moment, I knew what my video project would be.
The video was filmed at YouTube Space LA with the assistance of four amazing people (Jay, James, Jerry, and my mentor Julie). I wasn’t sure that I would ever post it anywhere, but used it as an opportunity to experiment with filmmaking and storytelling. I had a script and tried filming that. My amazing friend Jerry told me I needed to do a take where I just spoke from the heart. There I was in a dark room with lights glaring in my eyes. I couldn’t see anyone, just a glint of reflection from the camera lens. I spoke to the camera, to an unknown audience, but mostly to myself. And that’s what you see above.
At the end of the week we screened our projects on a movie theater screen with about 35 people as an audience. I held my breath as mine came on screen, wondering what everyone’s response would be. I felt so naked and vulnerable. It was all so raw. I had no idea I could hold my breath for three and a half minutes! The response from my fellow YouTube creators was overwhelming. They were so encouraging and demanded that I post it. It took me a number of days to actually share it on my YouTube channel. I ended up deciding to share it on Facebook as well at the last minute. I was doing a fundraiser for some friends who are adopting a baby and all the traffic to my blog was being donated to them. I thought the video might generate some more traffic for them. I had no idea that the video would end up being viewed by millions.
The response is humbling. I get comments, messages, and emails of support every few seconds. I am making it a point to read every single one simply because I want to make sure each and every story is heard. I don’t know that I will ever be able to respond to them all and I apologize. There simply aren’t enough hours in the day. I have spent the last several days at my kitchen table reading all of your words. I have wept with you. I have laughed with you. And I have been deeply enriched by the entire experience.
People have created a hashtag (#bethatperson) and the message of self love is spreading. BBC has written an article about the video, and people are campaigning to reach The Ellen DeGeneres Show. I don’t even know what to say. I am at a loss for words. How do you respond to accidentally creating a movement like that? I surely don’t know! What I do know is that I am deeply touched and forever changed by this experience. Thank you. That is all I know how to say.
A small note: To the many sincere desires to help my medical condition: Thank you for your concern. I am currently very happy with my current treatment and am not interested in the many offers I am receiving for medical advice.
My heart was so deeply touched by all you spoke of. I had tears slowly sliding down my cheeks when I finished. I whispered “wow.” What a gift you have given to so many. I learned the same lesson you did, long ago. But I know that so many girls and women scrutinize themselves and see flaws, whereas they’re really beautiful. True beauty begins in the heart, and you are a true beauty. I’m so glad that you’re my sister in Christ. May God Bless you and your family. Merry (Christ)mas!
You are an inspiration to me and all women. Thank you for the courage to put your message out there. You are a beautiful person and I love your blog. Peace and health to you. Thank you for the inportant reminder
You go, Girl!! I’m 58 with white “skink stripes” (a name given to my blond hair stripes when I was a kid and now even more prominent as a finely aging adult!! LOL!!) I have now taken to doing a partial ombre coloring in purple, and you should see the smiles that happen after the double-takes happen!! Be yourself the best that you know how, because we all have reasons for being the way we are!!!!!
I ann completely grey at 45 and have rocked my natural color for 6 years. I am amazed that daily I am told “You would be cute if you would color your hair” or from men”I am too young to date a lady with grey hair”. I hate it but it quickly weeds out those that are superficial. Thanks for having the courage to speak up for all of us that rock whatever qualities God gave us.
Rachel,
You are beautiful. Your video touched my heart. I recently have been having a difficult time trying to love the me that God made, this really helps. You’re 100% right! We need to love ourselves and build each other up!
What a beautiful and powerful message. Thank you for starting this conversation, it is one that I have had with my daughter many, many times. You are a lovely human being, glad you are in the world with us!!
LOL, I see my reaction to your “Be that person” video is not unique. You’ve moved a lot of folks! Thank you for that amazing dose of perspective in these fragile and often ignorant times. I’ve always wrestled with how to talk to my (now teen) daughters about self-respect and being aware that there is so much more to all of us than physical appearance. This is even more critical since the election. Your video gave me a perfect way to open that conversation again. You are Super Fab! Best of luck to you and a happy long life!
Hi, first off, let me say how sorry I am that you find yourself in this situation, both the mean commentor and the foreshortened future. I have heart disease, and I have a much shortened lifespan then I had planned. It took a lot of time and therapy to get to the acceptance phase. I look at you and see a woman that is embracing life, living it to the fullest she can, and inspiring others. Your words, and encouragement shall live far beyond the span you are here for. One never knows when something said will inspire others. Karma will take care of your detractor. And by the way, you ARE beautiful, inside and out! I hope that you always dance, as the song goes!
You are beautiful…f*ckanyone who tells you differently…….bullies are just that and only spew their bs becausethey are unhappy with themselves….live YOUR life justas you are with a massive smile and surrounded by good peeps.
Well done chica .
meow
You are AMAZING.
So many women need to hear this because it all comes down to Self-Love.
The kind that allows one to stand in their truth and to share it with as much courage and grace that you have shown.
Kudos to you!