I had the most humiliating experience of my life today at work.

[Shankapotomus]

214. "I actually had people openly complimenting my looks"

So, number one, you have the potential in you for those kind of compliments. And, number two, you were complimented on your appearance at one time in your life. That's not bad. I would take it a run.

Think about it: Does anyone in life who is good looking really expect to stay that way their entire life? We all have our moments. You may get that source of happiness back again or you may not. But you've had it at one time. Some people never get that. But the point is there are countless ways to draw contentment and happiness from life and feelings of self worth. It doesn't have to come from one source. Lenin probably wasn't the best looking guy but he was kind of a hell of a revolutionary. Get it? Look at rock musicians. Not always the best looking either but they are liked, sometimes even obsessed over, by people for other reasons. What about actors and comedians? Same deal. Think about this: Pavarotti's picture would have probably drawn the same revulsion when compared to your friend, if that girl didn't know who Pavarotti was. Don't get stuck with tunnel vision over yourself.

There are countless ways a person can be a source of interest and enjoyment to others and draw praise in return for it, even if it's just being the best gaming buddy you can be. Just find a source of contentment that makes you happy now, as you are, and have fun with it. Don't worry about the ones that don't bring you praise now or only rewarded you for what you were in the past or what you might be in the future. Enjoy what is open to you now, whatever it is.