My wife loves when I don't wear makeup, and has told me I'm most beautiful when I first wake up, and even when I'm in tears at times. Her words have changed the way I see myself and helped me learn to see beauty in other aspects of my life.
Beauty is so unique, often found in unexpected places and circumstances. It can emerge from tragedy, imperfection, and even the darkest of times, leaving indelible memories in its wake. I've come to appreciate this truth through my experiences and observations.
For instance, the Lotus flower, with its delicate petals, holds a special significance for me. It flourishes in murky waters, symbolizing how beauty can arise from adversity and ugliness. I chose to immortalize this symbolism with my first tattoo, a constant reminder of the resilience in all of us but especially in my own journey through trauma and healing.
Another example is death. I worked for almost 10 years with an in-home senior care franchisor and through this sacred work and the work of incredible caregivers I have witnessed and realized that death, and the passing of a life from this to the next is just as beautiful as when a child is born. Both are medical, clinical, painful and gross (if we are being honest) -- and yet the moments are beautiful. The same can be said of some of the toughest moments in our lives.
From these reflections, I've gleaned several lessons about beauty:
Resilience and Strength: Adversity often reveals our inner resilience and strength, shaping our character and fostering personal growth.
Depth of Emotion: Pain heightens our emotions, allowing us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of life's fleeting moments.
Empathy and Connection: Shared experiences of suffering forge deep bonds of empathy and connection, highlighting the goodness within humanity.
Transformation and Growth: Through adversity, we undergo profound transformations, emerging stronger, wiser, and more compassionate.
I see beauty in various forms in my life - in people and places. I even see it in the birth and death of life. And when I gaze into the mirror, I strive to recognize my own beauty, with or without makeup, hair un-styled or wearing a wig (which I do frequently for fun) and embracing my imperfections and acknowledging my inner strength.
One truth stands out: love is the most powerful force of beauty. Love, especially when it requires forgiveness and grace, possesses a transformative beauty that heals wounds and nurtures growth.
If you are like me and you're seeking to attract more beauty into your life, start with love. Love yourself unconditionally, extend love to those who may not deserve it, and watch as beauty manifests in unexpected ways.
Just like the Lotus.
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