I learned many years ago that I have a need for beauty. Not a want, but a need. I have recognized that when my life lacks beauty, I am out of sorts. Beauty is found in many tangible items. I love the beauty of things, such as furniture, accessories, and fabric. Beauty is also found in nature, and this time of the year in the south beauty is everywhere in the flowering trees and plants. Beauty is also found in order, and simplicity creates order. One definition of beauty is “a feature making things pleasurable to perceive.” These are the traditional definitions of beauty. 

Lately I have broadened my definition of beauty to include not just those examples, but also the behavior of people. I have spent time lately with an elderly uncle in various care settings, and I have found beauty in the behavior of caregivers, especially nurses. In one such experience yesterday, my heart was so full emotionally for the kindnesses of nurses, that I was almost brought to my knees in gratitude. Nurses truly are angels of mercy. 

I have also found beauty in the behavior of salespeople, as I have helped my uncle pick out and order carpet, and have it installed. I have also found beauty in the behavior of carpet installation staff as we dealt with an installation error that needed to be corrected. The importance of a positive and helpful attitude cannot be overrated.

These individuals and these experiences have broadened my definition of beauty, not beauty in the physical and traditional sense, but the beauty found in the attitudes and behavior of people we interface with every day in a variety of settings. The beauty of behavior that leaves a lasting positive impression long after the experience has passed.

Which has me asking myself the question, “Is my attitude and behavior reflective of beauty to others?” You might want to consider the same.