It’s not what you look like. It’s how you see.

While visting my father in a nursing home, I became acquainted with a silver-haired woman named Beth. Almost 90 years old, her best days were far behind her. She’d been blind since 1921 after a childhood sickness stole her sight.

Looking at her, I admit, I pitied her. Lost in a world where neither your body or your eyes work, it must be terribly lonely. But strike up a conversation with Beth and you’ll find a vibrant person.

This blind woman quotes long Bible verses verbatim. She is conversant in sayings from wise men and is skilled in the knowledge of many subjects from around the world. She speaks volumes of insights and conveys her wisdom to those who care for her and to those who visit. Within her frail body is one sharp mind.

Behind her cloudy, staring, distant eyes is a vision few possess. She sees Jesus with eyes that few of us can ever understand. Her fragile, failing frame is held together by a faith that is dynamic and sparkling and alive.

She reminds me that it is not what I look like that counts, but how I see. Our culture is obsessed with visual stimuli. Attractive people are magnets for attention; those with valuable invisible characteristics are often shunned. Our society tends to value style over substance.

Please, share with a friend if you feel moved.
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