Where True Beauty Lies

Tonight, Baltia, a small country in western Europe, convened their most prestigious gala of the year. From all over the world, famous and influential dignitaries put their lives on hold to travel to Baltia to honor President Thomas Edmonds, who had succeeded in accomplishing an amazing achievement for his remarkable nation. Thomas was prepared to reveal how Baltia now boasted a sound and increasing economic base, allowing its people a comfortable lifestyle where no one suffered from poverty. The world turned up to learn how he had triumphed where they had failed. This evening’s grand affair flaunted eternal youth and celebrated beauty. The extravagant dresses worn by the striking women had been created solely for this impressive event. Notable designers used fabrics such as silk, satin, and taffeta, and most were off-the-shoulder, full-skirted gowns reaching the shimmering floor. Sparks flew from the lavish jewelry glittering around the massive ballroom as the women proudly exhibited their entire wealth. The men were equally resplendent in black tuxedos with a variety of bright handkerchiefs in their front jacket pockets to match their silk ties. The fusion of colors arrayed resembled an overflowing flower garden. Though the President and the First Lady appeared together, the most recognized couple quickly parted upon entering the opulent ballroom. The President immediately approached a waiter and removed a drink from his full tray before purposely striding toward a serious group to his right while his stunning wife glided in the opposite direction toward some flashy, chattering women. Every person’s eye followed Thomas. Men mumbled, “I wish I was him,” and women whispered, “I wish I was married to him.” Baltia’s citizens were proud to say, “He’s the people’s president.” Soon, a crowd formed around Thomas to discuss his successes. He would see to it that he spoke with everyone. Austria’s president stepped forward and offered Thomas his right hand. “It’s a pleasure to see you again.” “The pleasure is all mine,” Thomas replied, shaking the offered hand. A genuine and open smile played on his full lips. “Have you resolved that employment issue?” “Yes, thanks to your advice,” the Austrian president answered. “I appreciate your time and effort.” Shaking his hand again, Thomas said, “Any time, my friend, any time.” As president for the past ten years, his main concern had been to abolish poverty. It distressed him to see the poor struggle and suffer, so with the assistance of all the country’s mayors and the heads of every company, Thomas found a suitable job for every capable person. Due to that, Baltia was now a prosperous country shown by no unemployment and a content, blissful populace. A regal woman in an ornate, golden gown reached over to Thomas, so he directed his attention to her. The queen of Denmark asked, “We’re fascinated with what you’ve accomplished, but specifically, how did you eradicate poverty?” Thomas was ready for this question knowing that everyone waited for his response. “The answer is simple,” he said. “Just provide your citizens with employment. When someone in poverty earns a good salary, they proudly have a new purpose in life.” Standing at six-foot-three, Thomas was a man of impressive stature with a trim, athletic physique. Tonight, he boasted a tuxedo created by Baltia’s top male designer. As he slid his hand down his blue silk tie, it was as soft as his blue silk handkerchief in his breast pocket, matching his deep, ocean-blue eyes which glistened as he absorbed everything around him. Getting down to business, the American president asked, “How do you encourage people to work?” The USA, as well as other countries, had problems with its welfare system. The group leaned in, anticipating Thomas’s explanation. Brushing back some brown hair that had fallen across his forehead, Thomas made a point to glance into each person’s eyes. “When people experience a fulfilling day, they encourage themselves.” Then, he repeated a much-loved phrase, “‘Do what you love, and you’ll never work another day.’” “But how did you create so many jobs?” asked the king of Belgium, gesturing with his champagne glass. Thomas placed his hand on the man’s shoulder and replied, “Delegate.” After a moment, he continued, “My citizens’ unique talents have been put to use to build a better environment. No one suffers from hunger.” The American president’s jaw dropped, appearing surprised. “So, everyone is working for someone else?” Thomas bowed to the man and said, “Yes.” “What if the position is unsuitable?” asked the queen of Denmark. Her exquisite gown showed off her bare, white shoulders. Thomas turned toward her. “Each person has a three-month probation period. During that time, they are evaluated, and each person can decide if the job is the best fit for them.” “What if it isn’t?” the king of Belgium asked. He didn’t seem to believe this could be successful. Thomas smiled. “Then they are given the opportunity to try something else.” The group nodded thoughtfully. “My people accept that each occupation has its own importance and requires challenging and difficult labor.” Thomas’s eyes darted around until they fell upon the nearest waiter. With a wink, he placed his empty glass on the tray and grabbed a full one. More notable personages entered Thomas’s circle and asked more pertinent questions. With straight and honest answers, he replied as best as he could. But, after a short lull in the conversation, Thomas surveyed the room, searching for his pretty wife. He noticed that she was in deep discussion with her shallow, vain friends who believed Leah’s life was perfect, which he could determine by their fake smiles. They were all clearly envious. Mrs. Leah Edmonds was elegantly dressed in an original, tight black ball gown designed by Marcus Wolf, a top designer in Baltia. She stuck out her right leg showing off a long slit down her side displaying a sculpted leg, and then she carefully patted her naturally blond hair which was masterfully arranged in soft curls around her face. She wore her most price-less jewels for this exclusive event. After she felt her hair was perfect, her fingers made their way to the exquisite tiara with ten perfectly round diamonds crowning her head. Two brilliant diamond rings made with platinum rolled around on her thin fingers. Finally, she checked her diamond earrings made with 18k rose gold with rose-cut diamonds. To Leah, it was of the utmost importance that she dressed better and more extravagantly than anyone else. It had required many hours to prepare, so she hired a hairdresser, a makeup artist, and a dresser to prepare her gown.