BEAUTY FADES, BUT LIGHT STAYS
I saw this meme posted on Karrueche’s IG, and I just had to save it.. because how real is this?? So simple — but so true.
Society puts so much emphasis on outward beauty, and the media only fuels it. From cosmetic ads to GRWM TikToks where women mask their true selves with makeup transforming into something entirely different, we’re constantly sold the idea that being beautiful is simply …well, looking beautiful.
But the way I see it — that's not all it takes.
There’s a different kind of radiance.
One that comes from a healing soul. A pure heart.
Not perfect — but trying.
It’s the kindness we show, the empathy we offer, the way we make others feel. That’s what makes someone truly beautiful.
My high school advisor once shared this quote with me, and it’s stayed with me ever since: “ People are like stained glass windows.
They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.”
— Elizabeth Kübler-Ross
“People are like stained glass windows. They sparkle and shine but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light within.”
Wow. Just... wow.
Yes, outer beauty matters to me. I enjoy feeling good in my skin.
But what’s inside? That matters just as much — if not more.
Because the truth is: as we age, our looks will change. We will not always have the luxury of looking as attractive as we once did in our youth.
Skin softens, hair thins, and gravity humbles us all.
But the spirit? The heart?
That’s what endures. That’s the part everyone remembers. That’s what keeps someone beautiful, even in old age.
One of the commandments given to us is “Love thy neighbor as thyself.” And the older I get, the more sense it makes.
The more experience we have, the easier it is to know human nature
And something I’ve come to understand is this:
People treat others the way they see themselves.
Have you ever met someone gorgeous — but cruel?
At first, you’re taken in and captivated by the exterior. The charm, the outfits, the smile. But the more time you spend with them, the more that surface starts to crack. And their true nature begins to peak through. You realize: that beauty fades fast when the inside isn’t whole.
We often assume attractive people are also kind, grounded, confident. But what you don't see is the pain they carry, the trauma they hide, or the insecurities they mask.
Hurt people, hurt people — but that’s no excuse.
We live in a world that rewards image. But just because society applauds you…doesn’t mean you’re actually winning.
You have all the money, the followers, the looks, the highlight reel.
But as Lauryn Hill said:
“How you gon’ win when you ain’t right within?
Uh uh... come again.”
What makes you feel beautiful — beyond your reflection?
xo,
