Have you ever stopped to think about what true beauty is? The word beauty can have so many different meanings to different people. In many instances our opinion on a subject can be influenced by our surroundings. Too many times our thoughts of beauty are skewed by media, society or even a careless word by someone we know.

A month or so ago, I was asked by Spa, Inc. Magazine what I thought was the true definition of beauty. For me, this question has always been simple to answer. True beauty does not involve wearing designer clothing or the latest designer shoes. Nor does it involve fitting into the perfect size 6 jeans. True beauty starts from within. Rather than desperately trying to keep up with the Kardashians, a true beauty enthusiast works from the inside out. I think the person who came up with the saying, “It’s what’s on the inside that counts” was really on to something!

“Being healthy and beautiful starts on the inside, but whether or not we like to admit it, it’s our imperfections that define our beauty. The scar on your eyebrow that’s been there since you were a kid or the nose you think is just too big-these are the definitive characteristics that make our faces unique, lovely and beautiful.” Lindsay Grummett, Spa Inc. magazine Staff Writer

Those scars, and wrinkles Lindsay spoke about may have come from struggles in life but they are forever part of who we are. Imperfections are gentle reminders of what we went through and overcame in life, almost like a badge of honor. And, as for that nose we may think is just a little too big, well, that same nose is part of our family history. How we view these so-called imperfections is a reflection of our true beauty.

I have always felt that “beauty is a fine balance of self-acceptance, confidence, compassion for others, a joyful spirit, and a positive outlook on life. True beauty starts from within and shines through to the outside.” It is that feeling of self-acceptance, of quiet confidence, caring for others, inner happiness and positivity that reflects true beauty. How do you view beauty? What makes you feel beautiful?