This quote implies‌ a perspective that perceives beauty beyond its surface level. The “elect” here refers to those individuals who ⁣can appreciate beauty in its ⁤purest⁢ form, not merely as an aesthetic or ⁣superficial quality, but‌ as an embodiment of the concept ‍of Beauty itself. This perspective transcends the physical ⁣or tangible aspects of beautiful ​things, and instead, delves into the abstract, philosophical, and metaphysical dimensions⁤ of⁣ Beauty.

The⁣ idea of‌ beautiful things meaning only Beauty is a reflection of the Platonic theory of Forms or Ideas. According ⁤to this​ theory,‍ the physical world is⁢ just a reflection of a more ‍real and perfect world of Forms. Therefore, when these individuals‍ see something ⁢beautiful, they are not just seeing ‌the object itself, but they are also perceiving the ideal Form of Beauty that the object represents.

In the context of today’s world ‌or personal development,⁢ this ‌quote encourages us to ⁣look beyond​ the surface level of things and to appreciate the deeper, more profound aspects. For⁣ instance, in⁢ our interactions with ‍people, we should not‌ just⁢ focus on their physical appearance, but ⁣also appreciate their inner beauty such as⁤ their character, kindness, intelligence, and⁢ other qualities.

Moreover, this perspective can also help us to appreciate the beauty in ‍everyday ​life, in ‌the mundane and the​ ordinary. By seeing ⁢the Beauty in all things, we can lead a more ⁣fulfilling and enriched‌ life. This idea can⁢ be applied in various areas such as art,⁢ literature, philosophy, and even science, where the pursuit of‍ knowledge and understanding can be⁤ viewed as a pursuit of the underlying Beauty in the universe.

In terms of​ personal development, this quote encourages us to cultivate a deeper, more ‍profound⁢ understanding and ⁢appreciation of the world. ⁤It encourages‍ us to develop our ⁤ability to⁢ perceive ​and appreciate Beauty in all⁣ its forms, which can enrich our experiences⁢ and enhance our ‍well-being.‍ This perspective can also foster a more empathetic and compassionate attitude towards others, as⁣ we learn to ⁢see the‍ Beauty in them beyond their ⁤surface ⁢level qualities.