Living in Los Angeles, we are inundated with billboards touting the latest and greatest upcoming television series or feature film. After awhile, they all begin to blend together.

Recently one particular billboard has caught my eye as I attempt to entertain myself in the infamous LA traffic (cell phone free entertainment, of course).  It’s emblazoned with the quote, “I hope you feel beautiful. Because you are.”

This billboard, with the words written boldly in bright white, stays with me long after I pass.

It strikes a chord because it reminds me that beauty is not the shape of your face. Or the color of your skin. Or because you hair is better than “Becky’s.”

Beauty is in your soul, who you are at your core.

Beauty is found in the narrative you live daily. It is in the story you tell with every choice you make.

Beauty is found in the way you treat others daily. When you choose to be kind, even when kindness is not the most popular option.

It is found in the moments of vulnerability; when you create a place for others to feel safe in vulnerability, too.

Beauty is not only a descriptor; it’s a verb.

Beauty is in the way you overcome set backs, yet still carry on.

For so long, we’ve defined beauty as something temporary; something skin deep. But beauty is something less tangible than looks.

It is in the way we carry ourselves. The way we treat strangers. It’s found in the way we love and accept everyone who crosses our paths, no matter their burden.

So I’ll leave you with this, words spoken by the timeless Audrey Hepburn.

“For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”

I, too, hope you feel beautiful. Because you are. Not only because of the way you look; but because of the things you do to make the world better for those around you.

Necklace by Indie Republic Design and available via BlueBond and all proceeds go to Cause4Paws.

Bracelet by 3strands and supports the fight against human trafficking.