My whole life my parents called me handsome. As age comes reality sets in.

I love how you end the article. Just telling her it's something you struggle with.

Here is a thing... And I hope it resonates.

Beauty standards have shifted wildly over time AND across cultures.

Marketing works. Some of the ugliest people in the world. Are considered handsome. There is a billion dollar industry (skincare is 19 billion globally) that conspires to make us feel ugly and push a false narrative that there are standards.

Finally, your writing is beautiful. I get that you're married and have a kid and you aren't fishing for complements. But this story makes me want you.

So whether you think I'm handsome it's one data point to keep in mind.

The fact that you snagged a dude out of your league is another that means something. You know the types of women who look at him with lust. There is a lot of evidence you're attractive.

But ultimately you get to decide what you want to look like.

I guess I just hope you... Take seriously the opinions of men who are into you.

Thanks for writing so honestly. So beautifully. I hope you continue to explore this topic. It resonated with so many.

That scene on the bus could be its own story.