Having a kind heart is a special thing. You try to see the good in everyone. You treat others well because you’d want the same from them. In this day and age, it's rare to find genuinely beautiful people. I’m not talking beauty based on looks because in the end how far does that beauty get you? External beauty is a materialistic beauty. A kind compliment on the way you look is great to receive, but honestly I’d rather be complimented on one of my personality traits. Having someone tell me that I have a big heart, that I am genuine, compassionate, dedicated, passionate, real, and polite mean so much more. Hearing these things makes an individual feel like they have more substance- that they have a purpose. I know I am more than an external appearance and knowing my traits are also something valued by others means so much.

Sure everyone wants external beauty. But in our generation, I feel as if internal beauty is more valuable. As Ellen says, “be kind to one another”. This tagline by one of my favorite humans is instilled within me. I think of the advice “be kind to one another” at least once every day. Being kind isn’t just an act that you pick and choose when to follow, it’s a lifestyle- a positive lifestyle that brings beauty when followed. Does it really hurt to send a stranger a smile or go an extra mile to help someone? You might not think about it in the moment, but these small actions mean a lot to others impacted by those actions. Not only does it mean a lot to them, but it should mean a lot to you. Radiate beauty from within and you will feel on top of the world. Your options are to either be negative and bring others down or be positive and lift others up. You shouldn’t just be a beautiful person for the sake of others, but also for the sake of your own growth and wellbeing.

As a quote from my article last week states, “Do everything with a good heart and expect nothing in return and you will never be disappointed”-Barbara Lowe. It’s never too late to change your priorities in life. If you live constantly expecting others to repay you for your kindness towards them, you will set yourself up for disappointment. Not everyone carries around a kind heart- but it’s never too late to start. If you are someone that gets complimented on your external beauty, pay it forward and compliment someone else’s. There is always going to be someone more beautiful than you. It’s important to realize and acknowledge that. External beauty means very little if you don’t hold strong personality traits such as honesty, bravery, or being a positive ray of sunshine.

In the end, strive to be a good person with a big heart- it goes a long way. You will feel better about yourself knowing you have left a positive impact on another individual’s life. In our society, we can’t forget to acknowledge the value of kindness. If you have external beauty- congratulations. But is that really what you want people to remember about you 15 years down the road? Or do you want them to remember you for the person you were and the respect you gave to others and yourself? Treat others well because it will be worth it. Looks only go so far but personality traits define you.