What is it that makes us beautiful?
Beauty truly lies in the eyes of the beholder. When we remember that we are all creations of God—divinely crafted, like a painting inseparable from its artist—we realize that each of us holds a spark of divinity. Within us is a light, a vessel of greatness, waiting to be shared. We can choose to be transparent, letting our inner colours shine and inspire those around us, or to hold our light close, preserving it until it fills us so completely that it naturally spills over to someone in need. Either path is valid; the essential thing is that we hold this awareness with reverence and respect.
Well-being and self-care are ways to honour the physical form that our Spirit expresses itself through. Striving to feel, think, and be our best is a way of giving thanks for the gift of simply being. When we come to see ourselves as special, it transforms how we see the world—enhancing our appreciation of animals, plants, other people, and even situations that come our way, whether they’re opportunities or challenges.
Sometimes, we’re conditioned by history and ingrained beliefs to react on autopilot, responding to situations with “That’s just how it’s always been done.” This perspective holds value, yet there’s also wisdom in asking, “Why do we do it this way?” With this inquiry, we open ourselves to understanding the deeper reasons behind our actions, making it possible to honour tradition while also discerning when it’s time for change.
Recently, I saw my mother through the eyes of the past. She had bought herself a pair of pants and asked if I’d like them because they needed hemming to fit her length. Laughing, I replied, “Even if they fit me in length, they’d never fit my waist if they were originally for you.” But then I looked at her with fresh eyes and realized—she had lost 40 pounds!
She hoped people would naturally notice her transformation and celebrate her progress. But true beauty, the kind that resonates, begins within and shines outward with a proud radiance. When someone’s appearance changes, it’s not always clear if it’s due to health or choice, which can lead to reserved or cautious reactions. On the other hand, when they embrace it with pride and excitement, they invite others into their celebration. It’s the reason we cheer at sports events or lose ourselves in a concert—because joy and accomplishment are contagious.
Let’s commit to celebrating ourselves in a holistic way, while also honouring the unique gifts of others. Our lives, in every form, deserve to be acknowledged, uplifted, and cheered on!