I had the most random aha moment.
So, I was picking beans for dinner. Wasn’t the initial plan, but mumsi wasn’t around and it was getting a bit late. While doing it, I noticed something: the way I pick beans is the reason I’m not as fast as my mother.
I have this thing with texture. If a bean feels wrong like it has holes, or it’s rough, or blemished, I assume there are bugs inside. So I usually go for the ones that look whole and smooth. Even if they’re split, I’ll take the smoother ones. In this case, I can make exceptions for rough ones if there’s no hole sha.
And that’s when it hit me: appearance does matter.
What Do I Mean by That?
In life, in relationships, in so many contexts — appearance does matter. Not just presentation-wise but even our innate features. Depending on the situation, this can be good or bad.
Romantically, people often say personality matters most. And I agree. But can we also admit that what draws you in first is appearance? Like, how would you know their personality if you didn’t approach them first?
Of course, there are moments when looks aren’t the focus. For instance, collecting something from an acquaintance — you recognize them, but you’re not actively thinking about appearance then. Still, it lingers in the background. Or when you hear someone speaking behind you before you see them — you already have a feel of them, their attire is also something to note.
And jobs can literally overlook you because of your outfit, makeup, or haircut.
What I’m saying is: there’s no need to lie. Appearance is important.
Beyond People
It’s funny how this extends to other areas too, like food.
They say you eat with your eyes first. Then your nose. Then your mouth. (I added the last two; I only ever heard the eyes part.)
This tidbit came to me while remembering a scene from Tensei Slime S2. After Rimuru awoke from the Harvest Festival to become a demon lord, Benimaru played a trick on him using Shion, who couldn’t cook (and had just come back from the dead). She gained a new skill that made her food taste five-star, but the appearance was still so terrible I’d wretch before even tasting it.
I don’t know if I had anything more to say on this topic. I really should stop putting off writing, I lose talking points that way.
Wrapping It Up
Sha, at the end of the day, appearance isn’t everything, but it’s not nothing either. If it truly didn’t matter, everyone would be a hobo.