Vanity Is a Virtue Essay Example for Free

Vanity Is a Virtue Essay Okay, I’ll admit that I like what I see when I look in the mirror. And even though I’m quite nervous talking in front of you, capturing the attention of a number of students, with all your eyes and ears on me, feels very fulfilling. Say it. It’s vanity. And yes, I am vain. So, as vain as I am, I’m going to stand before you today and prove that vanity is not a dreadful thing. Vanity is a moral excellence. Foremost, let us scrutinize Mr. Webster’s definition of vanity – an excessive pride in one’s appearance, qualities, abilities, achievements, etc.; the character or quality of being vain. Vanity is far beyond that definition. Vanity, after all is not a sin, it’s not a bad thing. Some said that it is associated with pride and that being vain is being futile and worthless. But, I’ll firmly say this to you – vanity is more than that, vanity is just the better side of self-love, self-confirmation. Vanity is needed just like self-esteem. Without vanity we would never feel good about ourselves. Seeking self satisfaction is after all the key in what living our lives to our fullest expectations are based. Just as self esteem boosts ones thoughts and beliefs, vanity boosts our image and satisfaction of ourselves. We are after all by ourselves in this world. Vanity is providing self-affirmation of what we think we are, making us love ourselves more. It is self-confirmation, it is knowing the difference between what others tell you and what you may or may not be in life, it is gaining more respect for ourselves. Although the word vain has taken on lots of negative connotations, theres nothing fundamentally wrong with it. All of us are vain – in our own ways. I am vain because I believe in my capabilities and in my spirit that I will be a CPA Lawyer. I am vain because I am proud that I was fashioned in God’s image and likeness. I am vain because I want you to believe me, to convince you that vanity is a virtue. Vanity like anything in excess is bad as it overtakes and consumes. Vanity should be tempered with realism and sustainability. As long as we stay in control of our vanity and use it to push us to succeed then thats a great thing. Let me make something clear though: Im not saying you should be rude, or walk around with an attitude or anything. Theres a big difference between being vain and being arrogant. Another great thing about vanity is that it indirectly makes us take care of our health. Setting our sights on having a perfect physique is a good example. Being optimistic that we could achieve a good health status is another. And on the emotional and social aspect, if we feel good about ourselves and we have that sense of self-acceptance, then loving and accepting others will follow. After all, being vain and focusing on health as a motivator is a good thing. And vanity is far better than self- deprecation. So, with all that I have mentioned, if your friends start teasing and criticizing you whenever you start holding and posing on the camera, be proud. Whenever you face the mirror and see if you’re looking good, it’s just fine. And whenever vanity strikes, just remember me and all that I have said today. Just keep in mind that, â€Å"Virtue would not go to such lengths if vanity did not keep her company. †