Why do we all want to stay young forever? It seems ingrained in our culture to admire people who look young, even if it’s glaringly obvious that they’ve had work done like plastic surgery, Botox injections or similar treatments.

However, this obsession with eternal youth often reveals deeper insecurities not only within those who manipulate the course of nature with cosmetic interventions but it also reflects deeper insecurities within all of us and in society as a whole. We’re all caught up in this idea that youthfulness equals value and worthiness, and it’s causing us to prioritize outward appearances and overlook what truly matters.

When we elevate these people to the status of role models, we must question what exactly they are modeling for us, especially for younger generations. Are they exemplifying the right things?

Are they showing qualities of authenticity, compassion and wisdom? Or are they reinforcing the notion that our worth is tied solely to our physical appearance?

The dominant message seems to be that ‘we are our bodies,’ and that ‘we are our looks.’

Yet, the lesson we urgently need to learn is quite the opposite. While it’s easy to become identified with our external selves, true fulfillment lies in recognizing our deeper essence. Beyond the wrinkles and imperfections, we are beings of consciousness. As such we are untouched by the passage of time. What this means is: In essence, we possess an eternal youthfulness that transcends the limitations of our physical form.

Take a moment to observe yourself. Isn’t there a part of you that, despite your age and the changes in your body, still sees yourself as youthful?