Beauty is a confusing subject for many of us. With varying perspectives on what we should look like based on societal norms, our physical environments and of course our own self-image, it’s hard not to consider what we actually find beautiful about ourselves. Is it our curly hair, our unique split-colored eyes or is it that figure we continually work on?

We know what our parents, friends and Disney television shows try to instill in us at a young age about beauty.

“It’s not what you look like but it’s what’s on the inside that counts.”

“We are all beautiful in our own way.”

“You’re the only you - so be you fearlessly.”

I could go on. But instead I’m just going to say what many of us feel: I still don’t always feel like I’m beautiful. After a workout when my curly hair creates a frizzy crown on top of my head, or after a shower when my mascara drips down my cheeks or maybe just when I step outside and see a gorgeous girl having one of her beautiful days - I’m not feeling that hot. That’s just how it is.

That doesn't mean I sit and mope about it (at least not for more than a couple of minutes). Because ultimately my beauty isn’t defined by the amount of effort I choose to put into my appearance that day. It’s defined by the actions I choose to take.

It’s hard to believe but I won’t be 20 forever. I won’t be able to maintain my dyed red locks or have a sparkly white smile for the rest of my life. Both of these features will fade with time. And while each new day is a new canvas for me to dress myself up to show the world my kind of beauty, my body won’t be able to keep up.

So I guess that means it’s time. Time to take a moment and reflect. Really consider then what makes me beautiful. And really it comes down to that person inside of me. The one who has been refined by the flames of trials, who has been molded like clay, and made for a purpose. The one who is a creation of an Almighty Creator (thinking about Isaiah 64:8 if anyone is wondering).

What does that actually mean you ask? Well for me it means that when my knees eventually give out from the nursing profession I will still be serving the broken by giving away baked treats (fudgy brownies to be exact). When I have countless number of wrinkles on my face they will be reminders of the countless times the Lord has blessed me. When my heart requires a pacemaker my internal “heart” will offer compassion and prayer to those struggling with the demands of this life. Christ’s love in my life makes me beautiful.

The amazing thing about building up a strong character is that it can become more beautiful with age. As experience and wisdom set in and goals are met we are able to see the importance of showing God’s love. Of having a gentle gracious spirit. Of standing strong in beliefs and not giving in when things are harder than we initially believed. Unlike the outward appearance that will fade, it has the opportunity to shine brighter as the days pass.

The character that we produce over the years, as we do life, is unique to each one of us. While the basic foundation might look similar we all have been given different talents and gifts that help create this exceptional person that only you can be (look at me sounding like a Disney Channel show). With the physical beauty it’s easy to look like everyone else. Just walk onto a college campus and you will see people following trends and blending in (me included).

So I hate to be a cliché but the reality is when you’re 70 and hanging out telling your grandkids of the good ol’ days eating that hard butterscotch candy, what’s going to catch their attention won’t be your wiry white hair or missing dentures. It’s going to be the story of that time you were a picture of love and kindness to another imperfect human being. Your character is what you’ll be remembered by.

So are you willing to put in the time it takes to make it beautiful?