I’d like to think that some things are objectively beautiful, that everyone would agree that a waterfall, a sunset, a butterfly, an infant’s smile are unquestionably beautiful.
But I know that that isn’t true, because Beauty is completely subjective. Our changeable moods can make, miss, and deny Beauty.
When I am filled with joy, a discarded soda bottle can appear beautiful. I am in love with life, and so I love everything that life casts before my eyes. And my love transforms every object into something of Beauty.
Transversely, when I am grumpy, a sunrise appears less spectacular than the one I saw last week. I notice a tear in the butterfly’s wing. The waterfall spray is too cold and not worth the hike. And the infant’s smile is eclipsed by his slightly crossed eyes.
Although, there are some days when my poor mood is forgotten when faced with Beauty that refuses to be missed or denied. The infant chuckles as he smiles. A rainbow appears in the droplets of the waterfall’s spray. The butterfly lands on my knee. And I smile, despite my best efforts to wallow in my foul mood.
I know that a case of grumpiness can be cured by a dose of obdurate Beauty, so sometimes I seek out my medicine. I take an early morning walk with camera in hand. I hope that the doctor will be in with a beautiful sample that I cannot ignore.
And in my search for a cure, I always find one.
I believe, at the time, that I am very fortunate to be offered a statuesque great blue heron or a blossoming dogwood tree or a brightly colored salamander or a swallowtail butterfly—just when I need to see them, when I need the power of their Beauty to heal me.
Life appears kind and giving. My transformation can only be magic.
Or is it?
Has an outward world of Beauty created the joy in me? Or have I changed my attitude so that I can see the Beauty that has always been there?
Could I have found the Beauty without seeking it, without looking for it?
There are days when nothing can penetrate my foul mood. Everything is ugly to me. In order for Beauty to affect me, I must be open to its gift—even just a little bit.
There must be a hope, a desire, for change. And once I look at my world with hopeful eyes, I am able to see the Beauty.
Which means that I can see amazing Beauty every day—if I choose to.
Such a simple equation. Can it be this easy? Can I transform the world with a wish?
In a way, yes. If I transform the way I see the world, if I see the beautiful possibilities, then I can take positive action. Problems no longer appear bleak. Problems are now challenges and opportunities. Problems are not to be endured and solved, but embraced and transcended.
But how can I maintain this point of view in the face of real difficulties and pain?
Remain open to the Beauty in life. Seek it out. Embrace it.
Beauty is waiting patiently for you. Just look with those hopeful eyes of yours.
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