Undoubtedly, in my heart, I believe that the Virgin Mary, Mother of our Lord and Savior, is the most beautiful woman that has ever existed. Still, if I were to select a woman for her beauty in this day and age, I would love to say that Mother Teresa of Calcutta, has been a symbol of beauty for all to emulate. I was fortunate to have been born to witness Mother Teresa for her work with the poorest of the poor in India. Her love for Christ and His healing hands made an image for me to want to imitate. Even as a child, I thought, “Who is this? I want to be like her one day!”
By physical appearances, Mother Teresa may not have made a popular magazine’s most beautiful woman as she was very short in stature and bore many wrinkles on her face. Rather, our society might be inclined to say that a favorite celebrity is the most beautiful. Nevertheless, one must look beyond outward appearances.
It is my opinion that the beauty of character illuminates who we are. Our society devotes an ample amount of time on methods to gain or maintain physical beauty, but places minimal effort on how we can become more beautiful through our character and works.
Where to begin? A smile. Listen to the words of Mother Teresa:
“Let us always meet each other with a smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.”
Really? Something as small and simple as a smile. Simply, yes. A smile sends forth the message that all are welcomed, all are loved, all are cared for, and everyone matters.
It may sound too difficult to live exactly as Mother Teresa did during her time, but we can consider how she loved others particularly, the most downtrodden. Nevertheless, we have all known someone who could use our smile, a warm welcome, and care.
Prayer:
Oh Jesus, remind me always to love others as you have loved me. Place in me a caring and understanding heart to help those in need both physically and spiritually. Let your light shine forth for all to see so they may come to love you more and more. Amen.
Love thy neighbor as thyself 