Having lived in the American South for more than ten years, I have often encountered customs and experiences I never knew in the Northeast. One of these is the beauty pageant, held in nearly every town. From newborn babies to little girls, teenagers, Miss, and Mrs.—at festivals and community events, beauty pageants reach their peak, and the competition is fierce.

In many ordinary families here, young girls grow up dreaming of wearing beautiful gowns, winning crowns and trophies. At first, these events felt strange to me, but I have come to see how children learn social skills early, gain confidence, and bring joy and pride to their families and communities when they receive the official title of “Queen of Beauty” for the year.

For a family to enter their daughter in such a contest requires not only the parents’ enthusiasm but also support from relatives and neighbors. Costly outfits must be prepared, and even infants, without understanding, must grow accustomed to bright colors and glittering, uncomfortable clothes before mirrors.

Countless hours are spent practicing graceful posture and walking for the stage. To perfect the most beautiful smile, orthodontics, smile training, and dietary discipline are all considered basic.

And once the official title of “beauty queen” is won, the girl must serve as a role model in the community—engaging in volunteer work, leading fundraising events, and preparing for larger competitions beyond the local stage. Sponsors must be recruited, personal coaches hired, and lessons taken in manners, talents, and public speaking.

As children, they may enter at the urging of others, but as they grow, only their own will and determination can carry them toward the dream of becoming queen. Through this demanding process, many young women mature inwardly and eventually find their own path.

Watching them, I realized that beauty is not simply born—it is shaped through discipline, training, and overcoming oneself. For a crown that will fade in a few months, people pour in their time, money, restraint, and effort.

And in the midst of these pageants, now burning with excitement across the region, I hear God’s voice piercing me: “How are you living today for the crown of life?” It recalls Paul’s confession: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7–9).

Am I living such a life, without regret? Or have I become one who, caught in daily routines, fails to give my time and heart to others, fails to encourage and care for neighbors in pain? Though I have long taken pride in living as a child of God, if my crown is not truly prepared, what greater shame could there be?