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The Well-Known Story Of The Ugly Duckling

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Balancing Beauty In and Out The well known story of the ugly duckling is a poignant reminder of what the judgments of others can do to an individual’s self esteem. One duckling was different from the other ducklings that were supposedly superior in appearance and therefore it became an object of constant teasing and torment. Other characters in the story only saw what was superficially different with the ugly duckling instead of taking the time to find what other redeeming qualities or skills it may have otherwise had. In time the duckling subjected itself to the life of an unwanted recluse because it knew it could never fit in. During that time of exile, it came to realize its true identity as a beautiful swan and suddenly it was capable …show more content…

The world asserts that to be successful you must appear as the flawless, photo-shopped models that garnish commercials and movies alike. One must be muscular and toned while paradoxically being ridiculously skinny. Unblemished skin should adorn the body, finished with a "kissed by the sun" tan and resulting glow; presumably from the glorious beach life. Thick, luscious hair should look perfect in any style, direction, or weather. Striking eyes should be framed with meticulously stenciled eyebrows. A nose should not draw much attention, but should leave room for the perfectly straight, white teeth to twinkle when they smile. These are the ideals many strive to achieve by any means possible. They try to force their body into a specific mold that will not, and should not, ever fit them. Oftentimes the most popular fashions and fads are started by those being themselves, not someone trying to copy anyone else. These absurd definitions have created an unrealistic and illusive idol. Plus, it teaches people to judge those who do not match the utopian model to be of a lesser value or …show more content…

Others can see the glimmers of beautiful qualities inside and give aid to enhance them, but the decision to let those qualities shine through is up to the individual. Through experiences and time, one can learn to understand how unique and special their personality is. This acceptance is not always easy to reach and may even take several years to acquire, but once it takes root it continues to grow stronger with the passing of time. Unlike inner beauty which lasts forever, outer beauty is fleeting. Sometimes outer beauty is a facade. It is easy to be drawn to a beautiful person, but not always as easy to find lasting relationships with those who only have superficial qualities. Someone 's total beauty dwindles when it is discovered to be only skin deep. Outer beauty will not last forever and over time it diminishes. The few years of outer beauty are usually just like the few minutes of fame celebrities enjoy before becoming empty memories of

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In the story of “The Ugly Duckling” the main character the duckling develops the trait of acceptance of who he was. As a hatchling the duckling has everyone turning their heads when passing by because of the “hideous” appearance. The struggle the young duckling experiences includes teasing from all encountered and seclusion, which over a the next year built a strong character for duck. When spring finally came along, the duckling could not take the bullying anymore and decides to fly with the majestic swans. The duckling pumped himself up by saying, “they will kill me because I am so ugly, and dare to approach them; but it does not matter: better to be killed by them than pecked by the ducks, beaten by the hens, pushed about by the maiden who feeds the poultry, or starved with hunger in the winter”

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