"I learned that I am not my skin. I learned as a child sitting in dermatologist waiting rooms that there are many awful diseases and watched how people deal with them. I learned that the opposite of thoughtlessness, ignorance, and cruelty is kindness, thoughtfulness, consideration, and respect. I learned to see people's eyes and read their souls."
"My child's view led me to see beauty way beneath the surface. I grew to be grateful that I was given this gift. While it's lovely that Pretty Confused had so many happy and positive experiences, I hope she will have the courage to leave her 'bubble' and go deeper both within herself and with others."
"Cover her mirror, choose to be with people who are more than their skin's surface. Find small ways to help and be kind to others. It's a beautiful world out there if you only have eyes to see it."
A 75-year-old reader shares their lifelong experience with severe cystic acne and physical appearance struggles, contrasting with another letter writer's concerns about beauty privilege. Despite decades of dermatological treatment and personal investment, the reader discovered that appearance does not define self-worth. Through waiting rooms and personal challenges, they learned to value kindness, thoughtfulness, and the ability to see beyond surfaces. The reader encourages the other letter writer to move beyond superficial concerns, suggesting examples of celebrities who used their platforms for meaningful humanitarian work. The core message emphasizes developing deeper connections with others, practicing kindness, and recognizing that true beauty emerges from character and compassion rather than physical appearance.
Read at Slate Magazine
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