The concept of beauty has often been perceived as a divine blessing throughout human history. However, the author's mother held a different belief, positing that beauty could be cultivated through self-awareness and understanding. This perspective is presented as a more empowering approach to personal worth and aesthetics.

This view has proven to be quite comforting for the author, Ruth Reichl, suggesting that inner growth and self-discovery can lead to true beauty. By embracing this revolutionary idea, one can redefine beauty as a quality that can be developed rather than merely a gift one receives.