Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. It is an old saying, and true. Beauty is a matter of perception. We choose, consciously or unconsciously, whether we look for and see beauty around us, or close our hearts and our eyes to the splendour before us.

That said, it is still much easier to see beauty in a pristine forest or an ocean beach than in a heap of garbage in the middle of a dirty city.

Our souls crave beauty. Our souls need beauty, just as our bodies need water. When we surround ourselves with beauty, it is easier for our souls to relax.

Beauty does not have to cost money. Nature is an exquisite artist putting on an ever changing display of magnificent colors, shapes, textures, sounds and dances. Have you noticed?

Beautiful music is available for free on many radio stations. If there is none in your area, you still have access to the music of your own voice and breath, the sound of wind in trees, water dancing over rocks, birds singing. We are surrounded by beauty, but it is up to us to choose to experience it.

Open your eyes. Turn off the TV, and turn on your senses. Being in a physical body does have some very distinct benefits. How long has it been since you noticed the texture of the clothes you are wearing or the cycles of the moon? What kind of plants grow outside your home? What types of insects & animals live near you?

Step outside and notice the sky, the plants, the colours, the critters, the LIFE around you. Look in the mirror and notice the colours of your own eyes. Explore a kitchen or a greenhouse with your sense of smell.

We live in an abundant universe full of delights. When we choose to experience the beauty around us, when we choose to use all of our senses, we become more alive.

I learned a saying from the elders: If beauty is what we look at, then beauty is what we become.

The perception of beauty is subjective, but the availability of beauty is universal. Are you open to perceiving more beauty? Are you willing to seek the beauty in everyone and everything, including your self?

What can you do today to add more beauty to your life?


el 2002