Is Beauty a Luxury or a Necessity?

In the whirlwind of life's daily hustle and bustle, we often find ourselves in a perpetual juggling act. We strive diligently to meet our basic needs while sneakily sneaking in a few delightful indulgences, as if life were an elaborate game of multitasking Twister. Amidst the pursuit of our basic needs, such as acquiring food, water, shelter, clothing, healthcare, education, and more, have we ever paused to contemplate whether beauty, goodness, and truth are essential elements of a well-rounded life or mere luxuries?

We often view food as an undeniable requirement for our existence. Without sustenance, our bodies wither, and life as we know it ceases to exist. But what about beauty? Is it an essential ingredient in the recipe of life, or is it an indulgence that we can afford to live without?  Can we truly live without the presence of beauty in our lives?

Consider the beauty that surrounds us—the beauty of nature, the beauty of art, the beauty of human connection, and the beauty of the Divine. Are these not the elements that elevate our existence beyond mere survival? Do they not nourish our souls and fill our lives with purpose and meaning?

Is one facet of our existence more righteous than the other? Can we genuinely thrive without the beauty that friendships bring? Can we exist without the art crafted by a soul that has paused to contemplate life's profound thoughts? Can we endure without those moments of divine revelation that bring forth truth, goodness, and beauty in their purest forms?

As we ponder these questions, I believe that it is essential to recognize that our capacity to contemplate beauty, truth, and goodness is a gift. But is this capacity a luxury or a necessity? When we are called to dwell on such things, is it an extravagance or a basic part of our humanity? The question of whether beauty is equally necessary for our well-being, compared to the essentiality of food for physical survival, is a subjective one.

Physiologically, food is unquestionably vital for sustaining our physical bodies. Without proper nutrition, we cannot survive. However, when it comes to emotional and spiritual well-being, the necessity of beauty varies from person to person. Some individuals find solace, inspiration, and a sense of connection through beauty in various forms such as art, nature, music, or human relationships. For them, beauty plays a significant role in enhancing their overall well-being.

Beauty, in its essence, is a multifaceted concept. It encompasses visual and sensory appeal, evoking emotions such as joy, awe, and admiration. Beauty has the power to uplift and inspire us, transcending the mundane and has a way of inviting us to ponder the sublime, something that is so impressive or profound that it causes a sense of wonder and amazement.

But what makes something beautiful is not universally defined. Beauty is inherently subjective, influenced by our individual perspectives, cultural backgrounds, and personal preferences. It can manifest in the symmetry of a snowflake, the harmony of a melody, the compassion in a friend's smile, or the timeless elegance of a work of art.

Reflect on the beauty you have encountered in life, the moments of truth that have illuminated your path, and the goodness that has touched your heart. Are these experiences luxuries, or are they essential for life and vitality in your existence?

Think about the influence of a places you have traveled? Did these places shape you, or did they merely draw out the beauty that already resided within you? Perhaps it is a reminder that beauty, in its various forms, is not imposed upon us but rather a reflection of our inner essence waiting to be unveiled.

Now, consider relationships. Which ones are truly necessary, and do we have the power to choose? Each relationship serves a unique purpose in our lives, and they all function differently. Whether it's the bonds of family, the intimacy of marriage, or the depth of friendships, they all contribute to our journey in distinct ways. Could it be that investing time, building connections, and being intentional in our relationships are among the most significant aspects of our existence that bring beauty in our lives?

In the grand scheme of things, when we finally reach the end of life here and transition, what will be deemed truly important by the Divine? Could it be that seeking truth, goodness, and beauty is among the most significant aspects of our existence? Could it be that we discover truth, goodness, and beauty were essential for life, a life filled with vitality?

In a culture that often emphasizes self-focus and individual needs, it's crucial to recognize the profound impact that authentic connections can have. It's not merely about self-care but also about how we function within relationships—with family, friends, and even strangers. Moreover, what about how we relate to God's creation? These connections to beauty may hold the key to understanding what is genuinely essential in the eyes of the Divine.

Many of us rarely find ourselves contemplating the profound beauty found in art, poetry, or the symphony of music. However, it is precisely during life's most challenging moments that we often yearn for the expression of beauty to help provide clarity and meaning to our experiences. In such times, we seek connection to the beauty that resides in others. Beauty in our everyday moments becomes a lifeline, offering solace and purpose.

Beauty is not a mere adornment in life, nor is it a luxury confined to special occasions. Instead, it stands as an essential element of our existence. Beauty serves as a bridge that links us to the Divine, inviting us to contemplate the truths of goodness, and beauty itself. It acts as a guiding lighthouse during the darkest storms and, moreover, an everyday lifeline that provides us with internal sustenance.

Our exploration of beauty has revealed it to be essential to life, not a mere luxury. It's a lifeline in the darkest storms, a bridge to the Divine, and an essential element of our existence. In a world where we are often preoccupied with basic needs, we mustn't overlook the profound impact of beauty, truth, and goodness. They are not merely adornments but they are the foundational elements that compose the essence of our lives. As we continue on our journey, let us recognize the transformative power of beauty and embrace its significance in our lives, for it is the key to a more vibrant and meaningful existence.