A New Perspective on Beauty
“A thing of beauty is a joy forever,” said John Keats. Beauty queens might echo this sentiment, but what if you don’t naturally possess those qualities?
If you have Caucasian features like fair skin, a chiseled nose, notable height, and other Western traits, society deems you attractive—at least in this Western-minded Asian country. Celebrities, models, and public figures in ads, magazines, and movies often possess these Hellenic features. If you look like an average Joe or Jane, you might not turn heads. Worse, if you are overweight, handicapped, or simply not well-endowed, society may label you as “ugly.”
Is this fair? Why are some people naturally beautiful while others are not? Did God design it this way, bestowing instant fame and glory on some and lifelong shame on others? Saying “God works in mysterious ways” can feel too profound or sarcastic for most to grasp. Without a more convincing reason, you might resign yourself to your fate and feel self-pity. However, there is another perspective to consider.
Reflect on Yourself
In the privacy of your room, try this simple exercise. Stand in front of a mirror without makeup, jewelry, or fancy clothes. Look at yourself carefully. Don’t focus on your acne, brittle hair, or overweight body. Instead, examine your whole being. Ask yourself, “Am I that ugly? Am I really deprived of all lovely attributes?” Give yourself a moment before answering. If you think you’re not that bad, then great! But if you still lack confidence, it’s time to see things from a deeper perspective.
From skin-deep to your innermost being, you can enhance your natural beauty. Here’s how:
1. Be Good-Looking Naturally
In our visually oriented society, maintaining a pleasing appearance is important. You don’t need a beauty salon or cosmetic surgery to look good. Just keep yourself presentable—wear neat, comfortable clothes and practice good hygiene. To achieve a well-proportioned body, engage in regular exercise to stay fit and trim. Avoid nicotine, caffeine, alcohol, and drugs as they age you and harm your health. A balanced diet with more fruits, vegetables, and fish, and less meat and dairy, will keep you healthy. Remember, your body is the “temple of the Holy Spirit” (1 Cor 6:15–19), so take good care of it.
2. Move with Grace
Your posture and movements affect your personality. Standing, sitting, walking, and pausing gracefully can enhance your presence. Stand erect with one foot on a step for comfort. When sitting, keep your thighs parallel to the ground and your feet flat. Walk straight with your head centered over your neck. Swing your arms gently and avoid bad habits like clenching your teeth or hunching your shoulders. Relax and conduct yourself with refinement in social settings. Mastering posture and etiquette can greatly improve your overall look.
3. Show Off Your Smile
A smiling face is incredibly attractive. Glossy magazines captivate us with cheerful, inspiring faces. If you often wear a hot-tempered expression, start smiling more. Find joy in simple things like basking in the sun or reading a book. Less stress means more fun, so avoid worrying too much. When problems arise, count your blessings to lift your spirits. Smiling not only boosts your appearance but also has health benefits.
4. Develop a Blooming Character
Your character defines you. Ill-natured people often have more wrinkles, psychological disorders, and health issues. They repel others with their grouchy expressions. In contrast, a benevolent person with a cheerful outlook naturally attracts people. A virtuous character can make you more charismatic.
5. Speak with Positivity
A pleasant voice, like that of a radio DJ or singer, is an asset. To be vocally charming, use your words to reflect your good character. Even if you have a squeaky tone or accent, bringing good news and speaking kindly will endear you to others. Avoid berating, lying, or using profanity, as these habits repel people. Positive, truthful words make you a messenger of light.
6. Radiate a Spiritual Aura
A deeply faithful Christian shines with a unique glow. This phenomenon can’t be explained by science but is sensed by spiritually sensitive people. Believing you are created in God’s image can help you reject negative self-perceptions. As you call upon the Lord, you become a vessel of divine blessings. If God is beautiful, then so are you!
Final Thoughts
Yes, beauty is more than skin-deep. Physical attributes please the senses, but intangible qualities delight the spirit. By changing your perspective, you can uncover your hidden charm. Transforming your heart will reveal your true beauty.
Remember: Whoever you are, in the eyes of the Lord, you are beautiful!
