Essence: Value Beyond Appearances

Co-authored with LLM.

We often evaluate objects based on their external attributes—how they look, what brand they belong to, or how much they cost. But when faced with life's most critical moments, these superficial traits often lose their importance, revealing the true essence of things. This essence, the core functionality, and purpose, defines an object's true value when all else fades away. The same principle applies to humans: our true worth lies not in outward appearances, but in our character, actions, and the essence of who we are.

The Tale of the Rolls-Royce, the Scooter, and the Coming Tsunami

Imagine standing on a coastal road, gazing out at the vast ocean. The sun is setting, casting a golden hue over everything. Parked nearby is a gleaming Rolls-Royce, a symbol of luxury and status. Next to it, a humble scooter sits quietly, unassuming in its simplicity.

But there's a twist—the Rolls-Royce is out of gas, rendering it immobile. Despite its grandeur, it is powerless without fuel. The scooter, on the other hand, is in perfect condition, fueled up and ready to go.

Suddenly, you notice the horizon trembling. A tsunami is rapidly approaching, a massive wave threatening to engulf everything in its path. With only seconds to act, you must choose: do you take the luxurious Rolls-Royce, or do you choose the modest, functional scooter?

The answer is obvious. In this life-or-death situation, the scooter, though less impressive by societal standards, holds the real value. Its essence—its ability to transport you to safety—is what truly matters. The Rolls-Royce, despite its luxury, is useless without fuel. Its essence, in this critical moment, is nullified.

Essence Over Appearance in Humans

Just as with objects, the essence of a person is what truly defines their value, especially in times of crisis or adversity. In everyday life, we often judge people based on their outward appearance, wealth, or social status. We are drawn to those who are charming, attractive, or successful. However, when challenges arise, it is not these superficial qualities that matter, but the essence of who we are—our character, our resilience, our ability to care for others.

Consider two individuals: one is wealthy, charismatic, and well-connected, while the other is humble, kind, and selfless. In a situation where lives are at stake, it’s not the wealth or charisma that will save the day, but the kindness, selflessness, and courage to act. Just as the scooter’s true value is revealed in its ability to provide mobility, a person’s true worth is revealed in their ability to offer support, wisdom, or strength when it is needed most.

The Real Value of Humans

This principle can be applied to how we view ourselves and others. In a society that often glorifies superficial success, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But when faced with real challenges, the essence of a person—who they are at their core—becomes the defining measure of their worth.

A person’s true value lies not in their appearance, wealth, or status, but in their character, integrity, and actions. It is their kindness in the face of adversity, their courage in the midst of fear, and their compassion in times of need that truly define them. Just as the scooter’s value is in its ability to fulfill its essential purpose, a person’s worth is found in their ability to bring light, hope, and strength to others when it matters most.

Conclusion: Embracing True Essence

Whether in objects or humans, the real value lies in the essence—the intrinsic qualities that define their true worth. In moments of crisis, when all pretenses are stripped away, we are forced to confront what truly matters. This realization reminds us to value what is truly important, both in the things we own and in the people we cherish.

Just as the scooter’s ability to save lives in the face of a tsunami surpasses the Rolls-Royce's luxury, so too does a person’s character and actions surpass their outward appearance or status. In the end, it is the essence of things—and of people—that holds the real value, the value that endures when everything else fades away.