"La beauté n’a pas d’utilisation évidente ; ni n’existe-t-il de nécessité culturelle claire pour celle-ci. Pourtant, la civilisation ne pourrait pas s’en passer."

Beauty - it’s one of those elusive concepts that doesn't serve an obvious, practical purpose, yet imagine a world without it. Hard, right? The core idea here is that beauty doesn’t necessarily have a functional, utilitarian role in our lives. We don't need it to survive, like air or water. But despite its lack of clear utility, beauty is crucial to our civilization. It’s like the icing on a cake; it might not be necessary for the cake to exist, but it makes the experience so much richer and more enjoyable.

Think back to the Renaissance. That period was a major turning point in history because artists, architects, and thinkers started to focus intensely on beauty. They created stunning artworks, buildings, and literature. The Sistine Chapel, for example—Michelangelo’s masterpiece—doesn’t serve a practical purpose. You can't eat it, wear it, or live in it. Yet, it’s considered one of the pinnacles of human achievement. Why? Because it stirs something deep within us. It inspires us, elevates our thoughts, and offers a glimpse into something greater than ourselves.

Okay, let’s look at a real-life example. Take Central Park in New York City. It’s smack dab in the middle of one of the busiest, most practical cities in the world. The park isn’t necessary for the city to function. But imagine New York without Central Park—just a concrete jungle without respite. Central Park offers beauty. It’s a place where people can escape, find peace, and connect with nature amidst the hustle and bustle. Its beauty doesn’t have an obvious use, but it enhances the quality of life for millions of people. It’s a sanctuary.

So, how do you apply this idea in your own life? Start by recognizing the importance of beauty around you, even if it seems frivolous. Invest time in making your living space beautiful. It doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of money. Sometimes a fresh coat of paint, a well-placed plant, or some art on the walls can transform a room. Take the time to appreciate natural beauty, too. Go for a walk in the park, watch a sunset, or visit a botanical garden. These experiences might not have a clear, tangible benefit, but they enrich your life in subtle, profound ways.

Let’s make this real. Imagine you’re stressed out with work and deadlines. You’ve been staring at a computer screen for hours. Then, you take a break and step outside. You walk to a nearby park, sit on a bench, and just take in the beauty around you. The greenery, the flowers, the sound of birds chirping. For those few moments, you’re not thinking about your to-do list. You’re just present, and it’s soothing. You return to work with a clearer mind, maybe even feeling inspired.

Beauty might not be necessary in a direct, practical sense, but it’s essential for our well-being and the overall enrichment of our lives. It’s the secret ingredient that makes civilization not just bearable, but wonderful. So, let’s make room for it, appreciate it, and let it elevate our everyday experiences. Life’s too short to overlook the beauty that surrounds us.