One day, Gibran Khalil Gibran wrote in one his letters, “All I do is put in that picture whatever God created in my soul. This all man can do.” Gibran had, then, realized that the best of man and the best he can do for humanity at large is utilize, through whatever he does, the good, talents, and humanity God grants him. Many people spoke of beauty saying, “Beauty is not one of features, but of mind, heart, and soul,” and that the “loftiest kind of beauty is not that which captivates us instantly, but that which runs slowly through us and we acquire without feeling!”
True beauty thrives in the human soul and attracts others. All people are attracted by good. They are affected by sincerity, and impressed by God’s wonderful deeds. Likewise, true beauty is never outdated. Rather, it is renewed. Even if the spirit departs, it leaves timeless imprints.
Man has to seek the secrets of beauty which God created within him. He has to refine them and offer to humanity. This is the best he can offer. When he offers the best he has, he enjoys this very beauty. I remember the teacher who was kind to Teddy, the orphan. Thus, he was able to overcome his pain and become a renowned physician, only to remember his teacher for good.
I also recall the account of the girl who offered the hungry boy a glass of milk, taking nothing in return. So, she affected him positively, and his faith in God increased, making him struggle and specialize in rare diseases. Moreover, there is Helen Keller’s faith which enabled her to overcome her disability and offer her best thoughts which materialized in eighteen books that were translated into fifty languages, apart from her giving several lectures that gave hope and life to others.
I do as well remember that impressive personality that influenced the whole world. Thus, his birthday, October 2, became the International Day of Non-Violence. It is Mahatma Gandhi who influenced the Indian people with his great soul. There are many people who are not famous. Yet, they inspire whoever they meet with hope and happiness.
This is no call for people to neglect their appearance. Rather, they should pay more attention to their hearts where all the keys of beauty reside and from which all good and happiness shine through life.
General Bishop
Head of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center
