It Shows In Your Face

My mother always told me that "Pretty is as pretty does". Over the course of my life, I have come to know the truthfulness of this statement. The most beautiful people in the world are those with beautiful hearts and minds, who perform beautiful deeds. They see, look for, and bring out the beauty in others.

The following poem is one that has influenced my idea of beauty throughout my life. We could all benefit from taking its message to heart...

IT SHOWS IN YOUR FACE

You don't have to say how you live each day.

You don't have to say if you work or play.

A tried, true barometer serves in the place,

However you live, it shows in your face!

The false, the deceit that you bear in your heart

Will not stay inside where it first got its start.

For sinew and blood are a thin veil of lace.

What you wear in your heart, you wear on your face.

If your life is unselfish; if for others you live--

For not what you can get but for what you can give.

If you live close to God in His infinite grace,

You don't have to tell it; it shows in your face.
---Karlene Garner

Ultimately, no one will love you for how great you are, but rather for how great you make them feel! To quote the beautiful words of Marvin J. Ashton, "Be the one who nurtures and builds. Be the one who has an understanding and a forgiving heart; one who looks for the best in people. Leave people better than you found them."

Do these things, and you will always be beautiful. Now go, and share your beauty with the world!