Pastor Ken
Recently, Princess Catherine of the United Kingdom made headlines for sharing a family photo that had been digitally altered. It caused quite a commotion in the news media.
Why do most people expect that published photos should be untouched?
Authentic expression requires no alteration. Despite imperfections in the pictures, many of us want the most genuine depiction in the media. In the present age, artificially generated “beauties” can possess the most ideal facial features, skin tone, and body shape. After putting on an array of fashionable attire, they project flawless images. Nonetheless, they appear too flawless, resembling lifeless sculptures in a wax museum rather than vibrant beauties.
Our bodies are a combination of singular and paired body parts, with no perfect symmetry. For example, the mouth is singular, while the eyes and limbs come in pairs. Several years ago, as I prepared for my wedding, I sought out a tailor for a bespoke suit. During the fitting, the tailor pointed out that my right shoulder was slightly lower than my left. This asymmetry had likely developed from my habit of using more of my right side for heavy objects. Such subtle imbalances often go unnoticed unless observed by a skilled professional like a tailor.
Jewelry enthusiasts understand that gemstones are typically categorized as natural or artificial. Natural gemstones hold a higher value, especially when sourced from limited mines, as their value tends to appreciate over time. Despite their flaws, natural gemstones are admired for their unique beauty. In contrast, artificial gemstones may appear flawless but their perfection reveals their lack of authenticity, thus diminishing their value. Of course, with modern technology, defects and color may be manufactured. Products can be made to look like antiques from hundreds of years ago. Still, experts with testing devices will be able to distinguish between real and fake items. Wearing natural gemstones often evokes a sense of connection to nature, which sets them apart from artificial alternatives.
Musical performances are another example. Nowadays, with advanced recording equipment, each instrument is recorded individually and then combined. Tempo, rhythm, volume, and other elements can all be fine-tuned later on. A single person will be able to play multiple instruments at different times and synchronize them together seamlessly. Musicians and orchestras can keep recording until they achieve the perfect result. Despite these capabilities, many still prefer the rawness and spontaneity of live music performances. The imperfections, mistakes, and unexpected moments are what make live shows so special.
The beauty of imperfections lies in the sense of cohesion that emerges from various components coming together. While one element may seem blemished or flawed on its own, the whole picture exudes harmony and authenticity. I like the artwork by Banksy, a British street artist. His original works are often showcased on weathered walls across the city. Sometimes, his pieces incorporate surrounding objects like a withering tree or the ruins from war to convey a poignant message. These pieces are not confined to art galleries but are exhibited in public spaces, embodying the beauty of imperfection and prompting viewers to reflect.
