Abraham Lincoln: 'Common looking people are the best in the world: that is the reason the Lord makes so many of them.'

Common looking people are the best in the world: that is the reason the Lord makes so many of them.

In his famous quote, Abraham Lincoln once said, 'Common looking people are the best in the world: that is the reason the Lord makes so many of them.' At first glance, this statement may seem perplexing or even controversial. However, when we dive deeper into its meaning, we find a profound insight into the value and worth of ordinary individuals. Lincoln, known for his wisdom and humility, reminds us of the inherent worth that resides within every person, regardless of their outward appearance or social status.This quote highlights the idea that common-looking individuals possess unique qualities that make them exceptional. In a world that often places undue importance on external beauty or societal standing, Lincoln challenges us to recognize the intrinsic value of seemingly ordinary people. He suggests that these individuals, though they may blend into the crowds, possess remarkable qualities that set them apart.One could argue that this perspective challenges the common notions of beauty and success that society often propagates. It encourages us to shift our focus from appearances and achievements to the qualities that truly make a person exceptional. This brings us to a philosophical concept known as 'the paradox of the ordinary.' This concept proposes that what may appear as common or unremarkable at first glance often holds hidden, extraordinary qualities.When we think about it, many of history's most influential figures were not blessed with exceptional physical features or extraordinary talents. Yet, their impact on the world was immeasurable. Think of Mahatma Gandhi, a simple man who led India to independence through nonviolent resistance, or Mother Teresa, whose compassion and dedication to the poor transformed countless lives. These individuals were ordinary-looking, but their actions and character elevated them to extraordinary heights.The paradox of the ordinary encourages us to look beyond superficial appearances and recognize the depth and potential within individuals who may seem unremarkable. It challenges us to question our preconceived notions about what it means to be truly exceptional. It prompts us to value qualities such as kindness, empathy, resilience, and integrity, which often lie hidden within those with common appearances.Moreover, embracing the idea of the ordinary as extraordinary invites us to cultivate a sense of humility and appreciation for the people around us. It reminds us that everyone has a story worth hearing and a unique perspective to offer. It encourages us to treat others with respect and dignity, regardless of their outward appearance or social status.In a world that often glorifies the extraordinary and idolizes the exceptional, Abraham Lincoln's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of common-looking people. It urges us to recognize their hidden qualities, embrace the paradox of the ordinary, and find inspiration in the everyday individuals who populate our lives.So, let us not be blinded by the dazzle of fame or the allure of physical beauty. Instead, let us see the real worth that lies within common-looking people, for it is from their ranks that the true heroes and heroines of our world often emerge. Let us celebrate the unremarkable faces that hold remarkable stories. By doing so, we pay homage to the essence of humanity, reminding ourselves that beauty and greatness can be found in the most unexpected places.