True Beauty Through the Eyes of a Teenager
As a very proud parent, I just had to share with everyone my 14 year-old daughter’s essay submitted for the True Beauty Contest at her high school.
What is True Beauty?
True beauty. Superficial beauty. Recent generations have lost the line which defines the difference between the two. They confuse the beauty of the eye and the beauty of the heart – two things that could not be farther from each other.
Of late, our minds have been set on the superficial beauty, tossing aside true beauty – the beauty of the soul – for physical prowess.
There are few truly beautiful people left in the world, but when you meet one, it is obvious. They smile warmly and truly, shining a light from their purity almost unknowingly onto you. And through that smile, you feel that that person really does care. They listen intently to what you say, encourage your ideas; they mean it, they remember what you’ve said or done. They treat everyone like they are amazing and worthy and honestly outstanding. They don’t judge or make you feel bad, and they are so very easily trusted. But most incredible, a truly beautiful person brings out your true beauty – just by being themselves, a person with true beauty can make you reach farther, try harder, dig deeper. They believe in you and want you to succeed.
But all that is just detail though. Because there is one sentence to describe a truly beautiful person, one sentence. That’s all.
True beauty is the ability to love unconditionally.
Mackenzie is an observer of life and based this essay on the behavior of one of her friends at school. When she found out she won, she printed off a copy of it and gave it to this friend, explaining that it was because of her that she won. This friend in turn told Mackenzie that when she becomes a famous author, she is going to buy all of her books. Isn’t amazing what kind deeds can do for everyone?
Mackenzie’s dream to become an author came one step closer with this essay. She was recognized for this deep and insightful description of True Beauty and won a pampering package from Aloosions Salon & Spa, who partnered with the high school.
Although Mackenzie was extremely excited about winning this contest, she has also been blown away by all the copy requests from her friends.
I’d like to say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, but…sigh…I can’t. Her gift with words is hers alone and I’m extremely proud of her.
What does true beauty mean to you?
Wow! I’m so impressed Mackenzie. You have truly captured the meaning of true beauty. Keep the positive thinking, it will help you in so many ways in life. Congratulations and enjoy the spa:)
Oh Julie, I know you are so proud! You should be proud, you’ve raised a true beauty. Congratulations to the both of you!
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Wow Julie…you have every reason to be proud-and good for you Mackenzie for seeing what so many girls your age miss. I can only hope my own daughter grows up to have your maturity and sense of what really matters. Please always be true to your essay….growing up is sometimes a challenging job….especially for girls…but look at this essay every time you have “one of those days” and should be a reminder of what is REAL in this world! Oh and keep hanging with your mom…she is one of the most beautiful people I have ever met – yet I have never seen her!!!!
You make moms everywhere proud Mackenzie!!!!!
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Beautiful essay. I’m a writer with the same dreams as your daughter – and they absolutely can come true! She’s got a way with words.
And I would agree that Mackenzie your mom “is one of the most beautiful people I have ever met – yet I have never seen her!!” Couldn’t have said it better, Jill C.!
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That is fabulous. Congratulations Mackenzie on your essay and the beautiful way you look at life.
The essay made me smile with the memory of one of the most truly beautiful people in my life. Thanks for sharing this wonderful essay.
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Julie-
Your daughter is absolutely amazing! She is a true beauty herself, as only someone as insightful as her can be. Thank you for sharing! I’m so glad she won!
It takes a brave person to reveal her inner thoughts, opening herself up to scrutiny and possible ridicule from peers. Congratulations on speaking your mind…I’m glad it resulted in a pleasant spa experience. Keep up the good work!
WOW! McKenzie you are amazing! Keep up your writing. You have a gift! Your mom and dad must be so proud of you! I am proud of you too!
Great job Mackenzie! It’s amazing how many hearts you can reach thru you own words. I’m so proud of you.
CONGRATULATIONS Mackenzie on a great essay!! We Are Very Proud Of You!! Always Look for true beauty in everything and everyone and that will help you through life. Have a GREAT time at the spa!!
Love Ya, Grandpa & Grandma