(Photo: Ebony Magazine)

Gabrielle Union is working it on the cover of Ebony's October issue and the accompanying six-page feature. The gorgeous actress not only looks cozy and comfortable in an oversize sweater, but she also shows that she's grown so much since her earlier pains. Union imparted some wisdom on her younger self, and in turn other young women, about learning from her mistakes, self-esteem and color issues.
"Your deep mahogany skin may not resemble that of the others in your family, but it's just as gorgeous and you're just as worthy… One day you'll appreciate how much your brown skin shines in the moonlight, glistens in the sun and ages ever so slowly," she tells her younger self.
You would think Union had nothing to be shy or insecure about, but apparently the starlet has battled self-esteem issues in the past and now takes the time to boost the confidence of anyone else who might be going through the same now. 
"Don’t let that pesky low self-esteem creep in and fool you into believing that you don't have value…don’t allow it to crush your will or dampen your spirit…"
The 40-year-old also talked about failed relationships and reassured readers that "real love will find you."
"Don't let other people's needs, wants, desires, fantasies, hopes or dreams dictate your choices and decisions. Follow your own path, and don't worry that you’re being selfish or disloyal," she says. "Never worry about love…real love will find you…an incredible love with an incredible man…there is a beautiful rainbow at the end of your storm.…"
The Ebony October issue hits newsstands Sept. 10.
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