What Is True Beauty?

President Monson says in this message, “In our world, moral character ofttimes seems secondary to beauty or charm.” Young women might struggle with their image of who they are and what they can become. Consider these thoughts about true beauty from Elder Lynn G. Robbins of the Seventy:

A young woman whose countenance is aglow with both happiness and virtue radiates inner beauty.
The virtuous smile is truly beautiful as it radiates in a totally natural way. This true beauty can’t be painted on but is a gift of the Spirit.
Modesty is an outward sign and requirement for inward beauty.
If you are discouraged about your appearance, it will help to see yourself through the eyes of those who love you. Hidden beauty seen by loved ones can become a mirror for self-improvements.
The kind of man a virtuous woman wants to marry also “seeth not” as the natural man seeth (see 1 Samuel 16:7). He will be drawn to the true beauty she radiates from a pure and cheerful heart. The same is true for a young woman looking for a virtuous young man.
Our Father in Heaven expects all of His children to choose the right, which is the only way to lasting happiness and inner beauty.
With the Lord, there is no competition. All have an equal privilege to have His image engraven upon their countenances (see Alma 5:19). There is no truer beauty.

To read the entire message, see Lynn G. Robbins, “True Beauty,” New Era, Nov. 2008, 30. Young men can find similar advice in Errol S. Phippen, “Ugly Duckling or Majestic Swan? It’s Up to You,” Liahona, Oct. 2009, 36; New Era, Oct. 2009, 16.