This 8-year-old boy named Ethan just realized one of his dreams when a MAC cosmetics artist taught him the art of drag makeup. When Ethan and his Mom walked into the MAC store, he told Joey Killmeyer that he wanted to learn how to do makeup like he had seen on the Internet. Florida makeup artist Killmeyer, who’s worked in the makeup industry for 15 years told the Huffington Post;

“When Ethan and his mom, Season, came into the store, I felt an immediate connection. He reminded me of myself at that age. It touched my heart that I was able to help him learn what he wanted to know.

I was so touched by his mom and that she was allowing him to do this. He also wants to learn to do makeup on others. He thought learning to do makeup on himself that it may be easier to do on others… It is about being creative, having fun and being yourself. And that is what Ethan’s mom is letting him do.”

Ethan’s mom, Season Wilwert said that she hoped her openness with her son’s creative desires would inspire other parents to embrace the unique qualities of their own children.

“Children need to be loved unconditionally, nurtured and encouraged to discover themselves through their true talents and passions. By doing so, and receiving the necessary support from parents, they are building confidence and security in who they are. We as parents should be our child’s biggest cheerleader.

Society needs to steer away from what is typically known as the gender roles and stereotypes and accept the fact that it’s OK for a boy to wear makeup to express himself as an artist. This does not define his gender identity nor his sexual preference. He’s just exploring and being a kid! Being judgmental and close-minded on such issues not only is hurtful to our children, but it also inhibits their freedom of self-expression and prevents the opportunity for them to embrace their true identities.”

Way to go Mom, Joey and especially Ethan. You are flawless, in more ways than one, kiddo.

(via Huffington Post)