It seems that one idea I am seeing expressed in this thread is that the ability and capacity to appreciate beauty is itself an even more desirable and significant virtue than beauty itself!

I got some very bad news today about two different friends and am reeling from it. But I know if I go for a long hike in the snow tomorrow it will rejuvenate me in ways that no drug, crying jag, counselling session, glass-breaking party or ice cream binge ever could...that's what the beauty of nature does for me. Gives me my life back.