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Beauty is the quality of being pleasing to look at, appealing and attractive, one would say. We are forever bombarded with products supposed to make people more beautiful; stereotype beauties are flaunted giving a lot of emphasis on external beauty, on who is the fairest of us all. Ironically, one may be perceived as beautiful while on the slip side, they do not see themselves as beautiful and may have a poor self-image and a low self-esteem, despite their good looks. Beauty is perceived as evolutionary, determined by genes. Beauty is judged in various ways by different people, mainly focusing on outward appearance which is superficial, and encourages people to make their decisions based only on what they can see, how limiting is that. Everyone desires beauty and to appeal to another, particularly their lovers. The saying goes “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Beauty is mostly defined by the onlooker. Beauty is not static, it is constantly changing with influences of media, culture, religion, modern trends including fashion. Contrary to what is told, beauty is beyond skin deep, it is not only about outward appearance, but even much more so inner beauty. You are fearfully and wonderfully created in the image of God. Beauty is created not only by the outer appearance but by many other qualities that add up to the beautification. To all of you beautiful people out there who are not sure they are, I am reminded of a song I love, you are beautiful beyond description; You are beautiful beyond description Too marvelous for words Too wonderful for comprehension Like nothing ever seen or heard Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom Who can fathom the depths of Your love You are beautiful beyond description
Scripture admonishes us in 1st Peter 3.4 that “ Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. Inner Beauty is rich, incomparable with outer beauty, it is reflected of character not appearances .The glow of self-worth, self-confidence, self-belief and integrity is part of inner beauty, silent but powerful. Although appearance place a role in first impressions and attraction, intellect calls for one to be sensitive in identifying inner beauty for it lasts a life time and does not fade away. When inner beauty is identified and appreciated, it supports the appreciation of outer beauty.
Characteristics of inner beauty that one should aspire for;
• Be real and true to yourself • Love and respect yourself • Be loyal and genuine • Be honest and of high integrity • Discover the treasurer within you • Understand your strength and work on your weaknesses • Have a generous heart, supportive, and considerate • Constantly renew your mind concerning self • Have an attitude of gratitude • Sharpen your mind with knowledge and skill • Be passionate and follow your purpose • Exercise humility • Forgive always • Exercise unconditional acceptance • Love deeply • Love God, for he is the giver of every good and perfect gift.
Work on your inner beauty and your radiance will attract many towards you. Inner beauty is more attractive, appealing, appreciated and acknowledged. Whatever you do, remember when you glow from the inside you are beautiful beyond description. As you glow, continue to take good care of your outward appearance. This is honourable and pleasing not only to you but to all those that you will interact with.
The writer is a Relationship Coach and Author, |Marriage Built to Last. You can reach her on; www.jenniekarina.co.ke
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