whether arising from sensory manifestations (as shape, color, sound, taste, etc.), a meaningful design or
pattern, or something else (as a personality in which high spiritual qualities are manifest)."
Beauty is universal. Naturally, we all have our likes and dislikes. We have been given the ability to enjoy things and not enjoy others. However, our minds and hearts have been cultivated by that which surrounds us, that which we have been exposed to, that which we value, and our understanding of what beauty is can be traced to those influences. Each culture has its own understanding of beauty, yet the definition is the same. Traditions, social norms, spiritual practices, and readily available materials (among many other things) all play a role in how our understanding of beauty is cultivated and formed.
Coming from the west, I had a limited scope of what I found beautiful based on the limited exposure I had to the world. In the past two years as I have extended my circle of influencers and allowed myself to be exposed to things that are different from my "norm", I have seen my understanding of beauty broaden, particularly in music, visual art, food, and textiles/clothing design.
What is informing your understanding of beauty? Is it the traditions of your family or culture? Is it the thousands of photos you scroll through on Pinterest that you want to imitate? Are you choosing what you find beautiful, or are you being told what you should think is beautiful? What does your understanding of beauty tell you about what you value?
Honestly, a lot of what I find beauty in now my friends in the States will not have the same feelings about, and that is okay, but it doesn't make it any less beautiful to me. My encouragement to you is to step out of your normal influences and educate yourself on something new. Talk to people who are passionate about it. Ask questions. Open your eyes to see the beauty that is there.
AJ
No comments