Own your face | Robert Hoge | TEDxSouthBank

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ก.พ. 2015
  • Father, author of the book 'Ugly' and political advisor Robert Hoge explores why we all need to own our own faces. Sharing his own personal story, Robert examines, life, love, beauty, imperfection and pain in this powerful TEDxTalk.
    Robert Hoge has worked as a journalist, a speechwriter, a science communicator for the CSIRO and a political advisor to the former Queensland Premier and Deputy Premier. While he never went far with his professional lawn bowls career, Robert did carry the Olympic torch in 2000. He is married and lives in Brisbane with an eleven-year-old daughter who thinks his Olympic torch would make a really great cricket bat.
    @RobertHoge
    @TEDxSouthBank
    This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

ความคิดเห็น • 20K

  • @BlackySpeakz
    @BlackySpeakz 4 ปีที่แล้ว +35157

    And then there’s people who get one pimple and start contemplating their entire existence.. Salute to this man. What a strong soul

    • @mekkin8412
      @mekkin8412 4 ปีที่แล้ว +67

      Ey

    • @wonkawilly4264
      @wonkawilly4264 4 ปีที่แล้ว +127

      I legit came here after watching your Kodak video

    • @davidmparker1
      @davidmparker1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +49

      So I guess you got his in your recommendation too

    • @wheeler116
      @wheeler116 4 ปีที่แล้ว +40

      BlackySpeakz what’s up! Folks who like real music appreciate this stuff too. Respect.

    • @SXNDICATE
      @SXNDICATE 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      *NOW*

  • @danitreminio2835
    @danitreminio2835 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2277

    "What is the point of having a beautiful face if you can't see it and be proud of it" -Robert Hoge's brother

    • @marthas.4456
      @marthas.4456 5 ปีที่แล้ว +80

      Often little children are wiser than adults.

    • @Dank_204
      @Dank_204 5 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Profound and made me tear up a little when he said that. The truth sets us free and is the most beautiful and heart-moving aspect in life for me.

    • @SB-id5tk
      @SB-id5tk 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@Dank_204 damn me too man not lying

    • @godzillaninja
      @godzillaninja 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@marthas.4456 I don't think his brother was that young. His little sister was four years older than him and he was 14 at the time. Meaning that his brother would be at least 19.

    • @SuddenClaps
      @SuddenClaps 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      "What use is it being pretty if he can't even see himself?"* but yes -Robert Hoge's brother

  • @iffyfox9749
    @iffyfox9749 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +350

    The father loved him unconditionally. Visited him in the baby ward. Didn't want to risk his sons life with surgery. Man thats such a heartwarming thing, yet so heartbreaking that his mom didnt feel the same.
    His brother giving him the cinfidence he needed when he was 14 was such a touching moment.
    Robert is a beautiful person through and through.
    Id give up any semblance of good looks to be loved and cherished as much as he is by his family

    • @khanakhana9906
      @khanakhana9906 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      His father definitely had loved him unconditionally with just accepting him how he is. It’s seems like his father’s life guidelines doesn’t include people’s opinions and the view that appearance has great hold on your life. It’s very admirable. I agree. But his mother might have been true in that regard of making her sons life a little bit better by choosing to go for surgery. Yes, it was risky but I’m sure she prayed for it to go well and had only good intentions. She might had known people’s true colors to execute such a decision.

  • @misstinygenuine
    @misstinygenuine ปีที่แล้ว +1457

    "I didn't figure I'd necessarily ever be worth painting, but I was done with being the doctors canvas." -Robert Hoge
    Love this!

    • @CrashTestSkater
      @CrashTestSkater ปีที่แล้ว +20

      So many young girls need that.. so many naturally beautiful girls (and men i assume) are botching themselves with fillers and surgeries to look like a doll.. Roberts face is filled with just as much character as he deserves, things can still be beautiful even if not in a conventional way

    • @maryfreebed9886
      @maryfreebed9886 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      He is worth painting too.

    • @k7l3rworkman97
      @k7l3rworkman97 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      This hit me so hard.
      It did feel like the doctors were more exiting the fact that they were able to use him as a surgical test subject because of his deformity 🫤 story really made me sad. I’m not big in doctors, but this puts them on the same level as police in our current day. Painful to hear, but I am So glad he made it, he’s here sharing this information and his experiences with us today. 💯☮️❤️

    • @ElectricVehiclesAreGoodF-ti7xd
      @ElectricVehiclesAreGoodF-ti7xd 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Shouldn't you be spitting on people and ransacking malls?

    • @ThatOpalGuy
      @ThatOpalGuy 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@CrashTestSkater its poor parenting. but these are the same parents that would ban a book rather than pay attention to the books their kids bring home.

  • @absofreakinglutelymaca1596
    @absofreakinglutelymaca1596 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2633

    He may put humor about it, but I know and I can feel the pain he been through when he was younger

    • @EphemeralProductions
      @EphemeralProductions 5 ปีที่แล้ว +92

      Yep like any of us can. The things said and done to us by others, especially our peers, are very affecting especially as impressionable children, and can last in our memories our whole lives. I'm no exception. :/

    • @NastoKing
      @NastoKing 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      tall32guy do mdma therapy its mdmazing

    • @scottcantdance804
      @scottcantdance804 4 ปีที่แล้ว +35

      I knew a kid when I was in middle school, couple grades below me.
      He had been born without a nose, and had gone through repeated surgeries to build one.
      You could tell his nose was flatter than normal, with a red line of scar tissue going down the center of it. He got bullied, by a couple specific kids I guess, because he looked so different.
      When I was in 10th grade (so he would have been in 8th grade by this time), I heard that one of the kids who was known to bully him had punched him in the face and broken his nose.
      The principal did nothing; she said they were boys just rough housing. I remember I got so angry, because I was bullied the entire time I was at that school, and she did nothing about that, either.
      I started walking down the block to confront her (she lived at the end of my street while I was in middle school), only to discover she had moved the previous year.
      I just remember how upset I was that day, and how angry for that kid I was.

    • @jackrobinson9403
      @jackrobinson9403 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@scottcantdance804 i cant believe you did that to that poor kid

    • @horzen4227
      @horzen4227 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I feel it might be a tad short-sighted to say that you "know" the pain he's been through when he was younger - unless, of course, you are of a similar circumstance, in which case you can just ignore my comment.

  • @alcapone5990
    @alcapone5990 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14331

    We need THESE PEOPLE, not Kardashians...

    • @KJ99otis
      @KJ99otis 4 ปีที่แล้ว +144

      Oh yeah yeahh - H*ll to the yes!!!!
      💜💯

    • @GreenSemester
      @GreenSemester 4 ปีที่แล้ว +102

      @@KJ99otis You are so right!!!

    • @hennypenny4097
      @hennypenny4097 4 ปีที่แล้ว +180

      Truer words have not been spoken.

    • @alices.b867
      @alices.b867 4 ปีที่แล้ว +66

      That's true

    • @N4orEditor
      @N4orEditor 4 ปีที่แล้ว +38

      what is this comment

  • @nickger4936
    @nickger4936 ปีที่แล้ว +647

    I teared up when they had a family meeting about bringing him home, and how his siblings said yes. What a horrible situation, an innocent life being decided on.

    • @miapdx503
      @miapdx503 ปีที่แล้ว +24

      Not horrible, it gave them investment in their new brother, that they chose him. It would be horrible if they'd rejected him.

    • @jerm2011
      @jerm2011 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +25

      What you just said iS why abortion is horribly wrong - an innocent life being decided upon by the less than innocent.

    • @johnyseimah229
      @johnyseimah229 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@jerm2011 world is already overpopulated..dont need more unwanted humans being born

    • @Psychology_Exposed
      @Psychology_Exposed 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      @@jerm2011 But you don't live with facial deformity. Not a problem for this guy, but many disproportionately suffer depression.

    • @Fire_ov_Renewal
      @Fire_ov_Renewal 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +15

      ​@@jerm2011wrong. Abortion is gods gift to mankind.

  • @cocosusprime
    @cocosusprime 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +164

    This is easily one of the most powerful videos that you can find on the internet and should be shown to the kids in the schools so that they can start building their world view properly in their youth.

    • @diannebuckhout9298
      @diannebuckhout9298 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Yes absolutely

    • @user-un1nu8wx1w
      @user-un1nu8wx1w 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Totally agree kid today need this guy and his values more than ever

  • @christeah12157
    @christeah12157 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4076

    This man is free in a way that many people will never know.

    • @angelahoffman3061
      @angelahoffman3061 3 ปีที่แล้ว +35

      100%

    • @roadwariors7853
      @roadwariors7853 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      Is not as he had a choice he was born this way so treatment after another here just realized to accept his appearance . the society we live on is rough we will always judge others for the slightest things .Beauty is at the eye of the beholder not your self but when u accept your self is when you will be free to choose your path.

    • @felipec.5403
      @felipec.5403 3 ปีที่แล้ว +39

      @@roadwariors7853 He had a choice. That's the whole point.

    • @paddor
      @paddor 3 ปีที่แล้ว +23

      @@roadwariors7853 Dude... spelling and grammar. Your comment hurts my brain. Even your name contains a spelling error.

    • @lishamarie2752
      @lishamarie2752 3 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      @@paddor looks like he proved one of his points though LOL we judge others for the slightest things

  • @rustyshackleford2717
    @rustyshackleford2717 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2433

    "I was a grade 9 boy, the worst possible form of humanity"
    Senior quote material

    • @demonrat3311
      @demonrat3311 5 ปีที่แล้ว +23

      This is kinda ironic for me since in my country a grade 9 is the highest grade you can get in your GCSE exams lol.

    • @demonrat3311
      @demonrat3311 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @sebbo Bro I only started revising today 😂. If we work hard I'm sure we can do well or at least pass.

    • @bonniejunk
      @bonniejunk 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@demonrat3311
      how'd you do?

    • @idkidk3424
      @idkidk3424 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@bonniejunk I'm assuming they didn't have to do it because of lockdown lol

    • @pratiksha4261
      @pratiksha4261 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      mata gee grade 9 means year 9 in this context

  • @karatemaster1144
    @karatemaster1144 ปีที่แล้ว +700

    He may not look conventional, but there's something really cool about his appearance. Excellent speech

    • @VinayKumar123
      @VinayKumar123 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      because you have seen him before, wwf kane

    • @minisithunknown5568
      @minisithunknown5568 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@VinayKumar123 Nope he is not Kane.

    • @VinayKumar123
      @VinayKumar123 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @Minisith Unknown of course he is not, resemblance is what I meant

    • @charaznable8072
      @charaznable8072 ปีที่แล้ว

      He looks like a Orc

    • @iche9373
      @iche9373 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What you are saying is positive Lookism.
      Don’t you think that’s cynical?

  • @PrincePalmUwU
    @PrincePalmUwU 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +68

    it truly sucks that society today is still based off LOOKS and BODY SHAPE. instead of accepting for who we are or cannot control for how our body is shaped or born. so ridiculous. thank you so much for your TED talk. very encouraging on acceptance.

    • @dumbodum
      @dumbodum 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      it's how our brains have evolved to work, aint nobody's fault

    • @ShadowNinetales
      @ShadowNinetales 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

      ​@@dumbodum Intelligent humans can overcome irrational/unhelpful instincts with logical reasoning when needed, enabling us to act appropriately to the situation. It's one of the perks of our species.

    • @dumbodum
      @dumbodum 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      @@ShadowNinetales yea but you’re expecting too much from the average person

    • @ShadowNinetales
      @ShadowNinetales 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

      @@dumbodum True lol

    • @user-es9qo9hx2r
      @user-es9qo9hx2r 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      It has always been like this, and it's only natural. Nature is just cruel.

  • @SangNguyen-ql3qm
    @SangNguyen-ql3qm 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2659

    his dad is awesome. 6:28: "why would we risk our son dying for the pride of appearance..."

    • @Jeudaos
      @Jeudaos 6 ปีที่แล้ว +226

      DAMN straight. I have a high level of respect for that.

    • @Salman-tf2cs
      @Salman-tf2cs 6 ปีที่แล้ว +53

      Sang Nguyen That's because parents love you for you, not for what you look like- whatever your appearance is, you will always be loved

    • @bimboleiro8068
      @bimboleiro8068 6 ปีที่แล้ว +65

      +Sam Works not her mom, she rather had a beautiful barbie girl

    • @ericessman8834
      @ericessman8834 6 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      exactly. no force in the universe is as powerful as the unconditional love of your mom or dad.

    • @SurrogateActivities
      @SurrogateActivities 6 ปีที่แล้ว +123

      his dad knew the right choice from the beginning. the mother was weak.

  • @davidabarak
    @davidabarak 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3541

    What's interesting to me is that after the first few minutes of noticing the uniqueness of his face it quickly fades and the person behind the face comes to the forefront.

  • @penclaw
    @penclaw ปีที่แล้ว +192

    to be honest his photo as a newborn is so cute, if only people learned to see beauty everywhere..

    • @Juniperberry1
      @Juniperberry1 ปีที่แล้ว +32

      This! He was so absolutely adorable I would have picked that baby up and cuddles kissed and loved on him so hard 🥹

    • @jakecavendish3470
      @jakecavendish3470 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Agree, such a sweet baby

    • @Smashley8708
      @Smashley8708 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      OMG yes 💯 he would of never left my side!! beauty is on the inside ❤

    • @spaghetto9836
      @spaghetto9836 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      He looked like a beluga with a melon 🥺.

    • @penclaw
      @penclaw 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@spaghetto9836 🤍

  • @MoMadNU
    @MoMadNU 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +52

    By half way in, I was totally over his appearance and could completely focus on his story. Then I realized the same thing happens when I watch a talk given by stunningly beautiful people. We are by nature driven to study faces. What this video taught me was it is indeed just a study, and only after the complete experience ends do we judge. And when we judge, it is the complete experience that we are judging.

    • @lauratorrell405
      @lauratorrell405 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      You hit the nail in the head!!

    • @jamesnite2157
      @jamesnite2157 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Great comment

  • @JasonGafar
    @JasonGafar 7 ปีที่แล้ว +16334

    I wish this man nothing but a lifetime of happiness and peace!

    • @bestkidever7004
      @bestkidever7004 7 ปีที่แล้ว +34

      Jason Gafar same

    • @jannfinch7769
      @jannfinch7769 7 ปีที่แล้ว +67

      Dr. Boom you're no better my friend. Using the "R" word is hurtful towards my son who has Cerebral Palsy and autism. Perhaps you've completely missed the concept of this man's message. Shameful.

    • @dre691
      @dre691 6 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      dude he wasn't talking about the man in the video he was defending the man in the video dumb ass. Some guy called someone else gay in the comment section

    • @wotizlove
      @wotizlove 6 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      No he probaby has not. Its just the issue of us human beings not being in controll of our feelings.
      And you are way older than me probably so you might now, hatred finds it way the easiest. sadly.
      Its the negativity in the air, the pain and the frustration of the sadness.

    • @blakcero7266
      @blakcero7266 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      ugh, you could have wished for a normal face for him!

  • @lib.777
    @lib.777 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1956

    People who embrace their insecurities are the strongest kind...

    • @brinaechanel4236
      @brinaechanel4236 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Literally

    • @christinainezbrisbo7264
      @christinainezbrisbo7264 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ROBERT ARE YOU ABLE TO DO LIVE VIDEO FOR ME JUST ASKING FOR REAL MONEY AND THE FANCYFACE

    • @Nabooze
      @Nabooze 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@christinainezbrisbo7264 tf?

    • @NC-it2ws
      @NC-it2ws 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      💯% true. To realise this takes a lifetime and practice it takes few more for the most.

    • @MaryLeighLear
      @MaryLeighLear 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I have embraced my awesome cankles as a slimmer person!!!!!!!! They are hilarious!

  • @josephearth1551
    @josephearth1551 ปีที่แล้ว +412

    He is such a brave man . Coming out on stage in front of an audience and talking of owning your face is a task that not everyone could do if they were in this guy's place.

    • @anitacrumbly
      @anitacrumbly 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +18

      Why is he brave? Do you have a fear of public speaking?...people who are disabled arent brave for living their lives like everyone does. I understand the sentiment and am not "offended" im simply letting you know that your comment comes off as patronising. He could be considered brave for surviving bullying, or speaking at a tedx knowing plenty of people will see the speech he gave especially if you are scared of public speaking. However he is not brave or inspiring for getting on the stage giving his speech because of his face and/or disability. The latter suggests that just because of how his body was made that he isn't capable of living a life just like you or anyone else and needs a pat on the head for simply doing his job. Again i have no malice this is simply me trying to help you see that your comment the way you phrased it is a bit patronising. What you do with this info is up to you. Have a lovely day.

    • @BenSwagnerd
      @BenSwagnerd 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +15

      ​​​​@@anitacrumblyas a disabled person, i agree.
      Im not brave. My other option is to drop dead. I may as well accomplish the goals i can when i can.
      I dont need to, or want to, be told i am brave for having conditions i was born with. It is the only life i've known, and not a choice i made. Just because im not "normal" doesnt mean im gonna lay down and give up or try to make myself invisible. That isnt brave. Thats playing with the cards youre dealt.

    • @un1kum42
      @un1kum42 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

      And this comment, unwillingly, showed the whole problem perfectly. There should not be bravery included in going onto a stage when you don't look "normal".

    • @kdizzle901
      @kdizzle901 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      I couldn’t do it with my face lol

    • @dknf4036
      @dknf4036 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      @@kdizzle901I was gonna say the same thing

  • @TerribleP
    @TerribleP ปีที่แล้ว +298

    I honestly just think this fella looks really cool.
    It may be the wrong way to look at things but I genuinely find it so cool to see people who look unique.
    In a world where everyone is striving to look 'attractive' and often use extensive beauty routines that leave many looking very similar,
    I find it so refreshing to see people who do not adhere to the 'norm' and have their own identity.
    You're all beautiful in a way, you were born to look the way you do and that's something so very precious.

    • @Ankku98
      @Ankku98 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

      Same. In a way i'm trying to look at myself too and think more like "if not attractive i look at least cool and different". I don't have facial deformities but for example acne makes me feel like i look different even though its pretty common, but still. In a way i look at my acne (and other things, like body hair as a female) and think "it's something a bit different and cool in a way, if not attractive". Why would i want to look attractive, if i can look interesting instead?

    • @sibulelemvandaba3833
      @sibulelemvandaba3833 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Like honestly 😭🌻

    • @Nimoot
      @Nimoot 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Right like ... I'd love to have known the guy who was 'The Elephant Man' ... I bet he could've had an amazing humor and personality.

    • @estelleschneider9033
      @estelleschneider9033 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I like his voice..
      I have studied vitamins and minerals...
      Especially in pregnancy..
      Deficiencies cause sicknesses
      One major deficiency in birth defects is Folic acid in the early 1st trimester ..
      Before becoming pregnant..benefit to pay for a complete vitamin and mineral panel
      That is complete..Iron & B 12 is
      also very important
      ❤❤❤❤❤
      God bless You all !!

    • @jakecavendish3470
      @jakecavendish3470 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      I agree, he's actually a very attractive man, good strong jawline and very nice eyes

  • @Wrz2e
    @Wrz2e 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2798

    After seeing that photo of him as a baby, it's heart breaking to imagine that poor little guy all alone in the hospital with no visitors. 😢

    • @peratattica
      @peratattica 4 ปีที่แล้ว +248

      The sad part isn't really about how he, as a baby, was left alone in the hospital room, because a baby doesn't even think of what people really are, but the sad part is that he had to receive the information that as a baby he was treated like that

    • @wer0t
      @wer0t 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Wrz2e joe mama

    • @phantomwolf2141
      @phantomwolf2141 4 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      I honestly cried looking at your comment

    • @phantomwolf2141
      @phantomwolf2141 4 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      @@peratattica I just wanna see his mom with a straight face saying this

    • @TheOne-jm6tg
      @TheOne-jm6tg 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Alessasso π danger or knowledge, that’s deep

  • @ChrizzMuzzik
    @ChrizzMuzzik 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2972

    "I was a grade 9 boy, the worst possible form of humanity"
    I love his humor

    • @milksoda655
      @milksoda655 4 ปีที่แล้ว +78

      I'm a boy in 9th grade and I can honestly agree

    • @anandchundi6805
      @anandchundi6805 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      he really is wonderful :)

    • @steakfries__
      @steakfries__ 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      but his realness is truly impeccable

    • @FullBoarDaniel
      @FullBoarDaniel 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      So true

    • @fznf3376
      @fznf3376 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      omg I thought you said tumor that would've been bad

  • @spurts
    @spurts ปีที่แล้ว +91

    I have a boy with Down syndrome and he was totally undiagnosed. When he came, his mum and I didn't want to see him for the first day. It was hellish. We were both grieving for the baby we thought we were going to have. The second day, we put our pride to the side and went and saw him. 8 years later, we are both totally in love him him and look back to how selfish we were on that first night

    • @mariaes623
      @mariaes623 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      I believe that every Down Syndrome child is more beautiful than the next. ❤️

    • @ramaboy10
      @ramaboy10 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

      Well done on making it past that first day. Glad that you guys are happy!

    • @leed4162
      @leed4162 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

      You had a natural human reaction and should never be ashamed of it.

    • @ShadowNinetales
      @ShadowNinetales 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      ​@@leed4162 I'm not saying that reaction is abnormal or that there's no reasonable explanation for it, but I don't understand it in the slightest. It's a special needs baby, not a stillbirth. There's a lot of autism in my family, and I haven't heard of anyone in it grieving because the baby didn't come out neurotypical. We are still healthy, lovable, loving humans enjoying a good quality of life, just with our own especially unique ways of thinking - isn't it the same for people with Down syndrome?

    • @TheBlackLantern34
      @TheBlackLantern34 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      @@ShadowNinetales The baby was undiagnosed, so the revelation at the time of birth must have come as quite a shock. The mother and father must have been so overflowing with hormones and emotions after the arduous process of childbirth that I don't fault them for needed time apart to process the sudden information. Down Syndrome comes with many challenges on top of the already challenging experience of raising a child. It must seem extremely daunting when its suddenly presented upon you.

  • @hansgruber4509
    @hansgruber4509 ปีที่แล้ว +141

    When all seemed lost, A father loved his child and did not give a damn what anyone else thought and as time went on he gained loving siblings that also did not care what others thought. Beautiful.

    • @MartinaRoters
      @MartinaRoters 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      What would have happended if he hadn't had any siblings?

  • @Valicore
    @Valicore 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4049

    I got choked up when he spoke about his siblings voting to keep him. Children are incredible.

    • @josephw.pironti6776
      @josephw.pironti6776 4 ปีที่แล้ว +102

      That one line gave me so much hope

    • @RandyMarshMurica
      @RandyMarshMurica 4 ปีที่แล้ว +92

      I mean, most siblings would do exactly the same.

    • @josephw.pironti6776
      @josephw.pironti6776 4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      I mean, only if they have tegridy’ they wouldn’t do it without no tegridy’

    • @brad4058
      @brad4058 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      @@josephw.pironti6776 Integrity

    • @josephw.pironti6776
      @josephw.pironti6776 4 ปีที่แล้ว +65

      Naw bro tegridy

  • @maddiek7236
    @maddiek7236 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2918

    The way he stutters the part about his mom...you can tell it’s still painful

    • @ianmurphy4638
      @ianmurphy4638 4 ปีที่แล้ว +37

      Madison Christenson he just has a stutter, but i don’t disagree

    • @Bryan-lj5oq
      @Bryan-lj5oq 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I stutter 😓

    • @mmameerkat
      @mmameerkat 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      unkown u spelt unknown wrong

    • @olabrenneguitar
      @olabrenneguitar 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      unkown same dude it sucks

    • @brad4058
      @brad4058 4 ปีที่แล้ว +65

      His mom.... the way she treated him really rubbed me the wrong way. My mother abandoned me at age 3 and left me to my father to raise me, but what this guy's mom did is so much more painful. To even know that your mother contemplated those kind of thoughts is just horrid. By no means do I have a hard life like he has, my face is actually quite attractive to many women, so I've got the opposite effect. But, I feel so strongly for this man's past, I'm not usually one to shed a tear, but this man has had it rough and I respect him for taking life by the horns and playing with the cards he has been dealt. I pray that he has this kind of strength for the rest of his life.

  • @montblancnoland4034
    @montblancnoland4034 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +14

    HIS DAD WAS A REAL ONE

  • @shereerockdaschel9301
    @shereerockdaschel9301 ปีที่แล้ว +188

    It’s not the outer shell that’s important it’s the inner shell and this man has a beautiful soul.🙏🏼❤️

    • @randomguy5189
      @randomguy5189 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      sure but when you get rejected even before people get to see who you are having a beautiful soul or not isn't even part of the equation

    • @shanouboubou
      @shanouboubou 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      ​@@randomguy5189Then those are the not the people you should surround yourself with. If they're so quick to judge and reject all of you because of your face, are they really worth it ?

    • @Tsamokie
      @Tsamokie 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      True , yet many are shallow and judge a book by its cover.

  • @Marcia6683
    @Marcia6683 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7235

    This man had a wonderful caring father who didn't give a damn about what people thought. Well done Dad

    • @thomaslouis1819
      @thomaslouis1819 3 ปีที่แล้ว +89

      It is easy to say this, but it's another thing when you become a bully of the entire world, or when you see your son being bullied...

    • @lavieja7938
      @lavieja7938 3 ปีที่แล้ว +104

      he can act like he doesnt care, but the truth is he does BUT he`s living with it

    • @welpiguess
      @welpiguess 3 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      @@lavieja7938 exactly, its unavoidable

    • @BetheChange80
      @BetheChange80 3 ปีที่แล้ว +56

      Well his dad Just had the courage to live with his son not having any surgery at all.
      That attitude matters when you have a weird looking baby.

    • @ethanconlin6856
      @ethanconlin6856 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      if thy said no tough for him to bring home

  • @theeNellyD
    @theeNellyD 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1676

    His story makes any issue I've ever had to deal with seem so trivial.

    • @juliacollazoactress
      @juliacollazoactress 7 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      same.

    • @pobarenzor
      @pobarenzor 7 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      N-word Jim he's dead bro. Better preach for something that makes something good for humanity instead of some meaningless dipshit that got crossed

    • @JoshDHall23
      @JoshDHall23 7 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Where's that love Jesus spoke so much about? You've got the speaking the truth part down, now focus on loving. Most people aren't going to read a youtube comment and change what they believe, especially if that comment contradicts itself (hatefully saying to follow Jesus, who is the embodiment of love)

    • @juliacollazoactress
      @juliacollazoactress 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Shhhhhhh. You are misrepresenting God with hate. God still loves him and wants good things for Him. What you're saying he is, a "worthless soul" is by it's nature against God's word. Do not be so angry and spiteful. For God is loving and patient. He calls us to be the same.

    • @ReonFourie
      @ReonFourie 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Agree with you!
      I have no idea where those guys got their facts but they are surely not from the Bible

  • @TimsFoyleHeadgear
    @TimsFoyleHeadgear ปีที่แล้ว +4

    With every word he spoke, he got more and more beautiful.

  • @Pulsonar
    @Pulsonar 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Unbelievably strong and courageous man, he’s a far more rare and more beautiful human being on the inside than you’d ever find amongst the popular and fashionable people considered ‘beautiful’ on the outside.

  • @Vextrove
    @Vextrove 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2572

    If you look long enough at anyone's face you will see the person behind it, it's beautiful

    • @legitloner8383
      @legitloner8383 4 ปีที่แล้ว +44

      Why are you laughing then????

    • @DigOleBickInya
      @DigOleBickInya 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      That's a lovely poetic philosophy. :)

    • @spiritnc2031
      @spiritnc2031 4 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      So I stared at my mums face for 10 minutes and she thought I’m Going crazy .

    • @NRfun
      @NRfun 4 ปีที่แล้ว +32

      Sometimes my boyfriend and I just look at eachother without saying anything. When I do this, to me he becomes prettier every second. It feels like I see what's inside him.

    • @kodokuitami5084
      @kodokuitami5084 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@OP-hu7ve noobmaster69?

  • @justinebourke2811
    @justinebourke2811 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1948

    Every face is pleasing when you love the person behind it.

    • @steinbeckeast
      @steinbeckeast 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      ❤️🙏

    • @drumnbasskim
      @drumnbasskim 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    • @user-qe6rp9dt5f
      @user-qe6rp9dt5f 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      That's just warm sounding bul... nonsense.

    • @JuliatteJ
      @JuliatteJ 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      He loves the person he is behind the face

    • @fanfam
      @fanfam 3 ปีที่แล้ว +40

      @@user-qe6rp9dt5f I don't think it is bul.... nonsense. Think again and really good this time. You can do it.

  • @tripplerangs80
    @tripplerangs80 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I am a person who only see my flaws when I look in the mirror. it's so bad that this man is so strong than most of us. this man is a true inspiration.

  • @Topesio66
    @Topesio66 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +18

    What amazes me so much about this vid is that ok, in the begin of the video I notice his face, but as he speaks and the story involves me more and more, I start not to notice his face anymore, but I'm caught more and more by how good is his speech and precise his voice, and by the end of this amazing story the face is absolutely normal for me. Anybody else? I would say his look is more cool than the average Joe. And how smart and courageous was he in his early years? This man is amazing and really touched me in the deep of my heart.

    • @yusumemusic
      @yusumemusic 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      100% and these people like him are most of the time very interesting people

    • @YipJumpMusic
      @YipJumpMusic 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Heartwarming comment. People like you and Robert Hoge prevent me from fully losing hope in life.

  • @gaycleetus6774
    @gaycleetus6774 7 ปีที่แล้ว +957

    "i was a grade 9 boy, the worst possible form of humanity" Being a "grande 9 boy" i agree completely

    • @arnold84120
      @arnold84120 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      What is a grade nine boy? I am curious now.

    • @reverendrobertparsimony8475
      @reverendrobertparsimony8475 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Sayam Qazi Someone who is in year 9, third year of highschool.

    • @marieb.1372
      @marieb.1372 7 ปีที่แล้ว +31

      Grade 9 is not the third year of high school, it is the first year. Grade 11 is third year.

    • @reverendrobertparsimony8475
      @reverendrobertparsimony8475 7 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Marie B.​ 7 first year, 8 second year, 9 third year. Don't know if you noticed this but Robert is not a Yank. You're so confidently wrong.

    • @JoseAlvarez-zr3rl
      @JoseAlvarez-zr3rl 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Mack Teen 9th grade is the first year

  • @CrazyScubaCouple
    @CrazyScubaCouple 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2445

    "what use is it being pretty if he can't see himself?" that, is pure wisdom coming from a teenager.

    • @DrachenGothik666
      @DrachenGothik666 4 ปีที่แล้ว +69

      I practically cheered when he quoted his brother...

    • @debbieneils8235
      @debbieneils8235 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Yes

    • @eskabanofficial
      @eskabanofficial 3 ปีที่แล้ว +38

      that the others can see it and you get the halo effect and people treat you better, get jobs faster, get love and friends faster, get promotions etc faster

    • @ish.zaiffa2448
      @ish.zaiffa2448 3 ปีที่แล้ว +35

      @@eskabanofficial not when he's blind lol

    • @SimsMoyal
      @SimsMoyal 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Its not for yourself being pretty but for other people to have a better altitude and treat you better

  • @Andrejsoft
    @Andrejsoft 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

    Can't stop crying: so much pain and suffering... and still a strong man with healthy soul. God bless you, my friend.

  • @mommy-conmed
    @mommy-conmed 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +26

    As an aging woman slipping into invisibility, this talk really impacted me. After he spoke for about half a minute, I started noticing him as a regular person. I've decided I'm owning my face.

    • @indra3331
      @indra3331 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Yes this talk puts a new slant on us women entering elder years. I do avoid the mirror and look away quickly after the morning getting ready routine. I will give owning my face just as it is a try,

    • @cokta006
      @cokta006 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      im 18 and invisible

    • @BasedinReality1984
      @BasedinReality1984 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      You’re no where near invisible at all. Fantastic singer too btw !

  • @taydestiny38
    @taydestiny38 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2733

    I'm glad his mother eventually came around and all, but how bout giving some kudos to the Dad for loving his son unconditionally from the start!!

    • @josie3221
      @josie3221 4 ปีที่แล้ว +131

      his mom sounds really mean. i don't want to judge too much but wow.

    • @trigger1377
      @trigger1377 4 ปีที่แล้ว +37

      Society says otherwise. Dads ftw

    • @lukevader2831
      @lukevader2831 4 ปีที่แล้ว +63

      Dads always got your back. Even if your wrong

    • @0_iAlmighty_0
      @0_iAlmighty_0 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      It was the same for my dad.

    • @stefan98TH
      @stefan98TH 4 ปีที่แล้ว +33

      @@josie3221 Everybody reacts in different ways. People are not inherently good or bad. I can understand how a mother may initially feel totally disconnected from such a child. It was totally unexpected.

  • @TheLethalknife
    @TheLethalknife 7 ปีที่แล้ว +417

    honestly he doesn't even look bad. just looks a little unique. nothing wrong with that

    • @tellurianapostle
      @tellurianapostle 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      He looks like a victim of modern medicine, his story fits the context of scars a lot better. At least thats the only way I can find to relate to a man whose face was cut open and stitched back together a couple times.

    • @lospollosfinger8079
      @lospollosfinger8079 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      TheLethalKnife foreal like he looks normal as you see him more along the video and it's not even bad

    • @arthurdent6256
      @arthurdent6256 7 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      He looks pretty badass.

    • @slothsarecool
      @slothsarecool 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Totally, in a world where every hipster with a beard looks identical, looking a bit different isn't such a bad thing.

    • @Cavi587
      @Cavi587 7 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Now - sure, but imagine how much pain he must've went through as a kid in school. Kids are fucking awful and do not understand how some people just can't control some aspect of their life, and they will bully everyone who looks or acts a little bit different. Cool that he found peace as an adult tho.

  • @GlennLittleford
    @GlennLittleford 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    5 minutes into your talk, and I realised your face looked perfectly normal to me. I had a cancer removed on my nose a few years ago, it left a scare, but the cancer was gone. I owned that scare, it tells a story.

  • @Klapn_Cheeks420
    @Klapn_Cheeks420 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I am a 23 year old male (5'6") living with bdd. I used to hate getting my pictures taken, missing out on memories because I felt embarrassed that I'd ruin the picture and I can tell you from my experience, I feel my cope is helping others. I can't change who I am but I can change how I think. I've been getting closer to God and noticed my anxiety about my looks went down because I am too busy helping people. He also gave me confidence going to stores and I can honestly say the change in my self esteem made me realize looks truly don't matter it's all about confidence, not arrogance.

  • @eldinphp6703
    @eldinphp6703 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3907

    he actually looks badass to me. Respect !

    • @zealot8904
      @zealot8904 4 ปีที่แล้ว +68

      I was looking for a comment like this! He looks like a badass alien or lotr ork!

    • @thezero6152
      @thezero6152 4 ปีที่แล้ว +118

      He should do some acting

    • @bonniejunk
      @bonniejunk 4 ปีที่แล้ว +147

      yeah, he could probably be a memorable actor if he wanted, but the sad thing is most agencies would probably only cast him as a villain or monster.

    • @traciewasley7750
      @traciewasley7750 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Right on

    • @wshaffer79
      @wshaffer79 4 ปีที่แล้ว +50

      I agree he looks badass. He reminds me of the picture of the Doom Guy in the bottom toolbar in the original game. It's a good look actually.

  • @DyingOvaColorz
    @DyingOvaColorz 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1850

    I have no legs too man. I got in a bad accident and lost them about 7 years ago just before my 21st birthday. I’m grateful I got to keep my face. This video is very inspiring to me god bless you bro.

    • @xboxsolox
      @xboxsolox 5 ปีที่แล้ว +82

      Rome N stay strong brother

    • @ahmeds8580
      @ahmeds8580 5 ปีที่แล้ว +43

      May Allah bless you with inner peace and strength. I wish you the best! Allah Is with those who are patient.

    • @narcsinart7179
      @narcsinart7179 5 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      and God bless you too Rome N

    • @jimpanse4216
      @jimpanse4216 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Rome N lol at first i was sorry for you, but when i saw the videos you liked, i thought, better you than someone useful/with a working brain😅

    • @Townes.VanZandt
      @Townes.VanZandt 5 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      @@jimpanse4216 And everyone else agrees that your the worst type of person above all. What difference is it to you what he likes? Judgemental to satiate your insecurities. Not bright enough to see the bigger picture.

  • @3303rco
    @3303rco 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    God bless this brave man for speaking and educating us.

  • @mommy-conmed
    @mommy-conmed 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I loved seeing the portrait. It made tears spring to my eyes. By the end i am thinking he's handsome. Not farfetched.

  • @nintendopet114
    @nintendopet114 7 ปีที่แล้ว +7666

    he does kind of look like a bad ass comic book character

    • @RayyanKhanRayyanKhan
      @RayyanKhanRayyanKhan 7 ปีที่แล้ว +37

      greyson rhodes A Rob Liefield drawing

    • @ColorFusical
      @ColorFusical 7 ปีที่แล้ว +132

      he kinda looks like the sand dude from spider man

    • @Mikla345
      @Mikla345 7 ปีที่แล้ว +81

      Marv from sin city

    • @johnzoidberg9764
      @johnzoidberg9764 7 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      I was thinking the same.

    • @Fonch117
      @Fonch117 7 ปีที่แล้ว +39

      Haha dude I was thinking the same thing. This guy looks like a super villain! xD

  • @tquzonderclassaforsen6825
    @tquzonderclassaforsen6825 7 ปีที่แล้ว +15329

    His face is surprisingly easy to get used to

    • @HAngeli
      @HAngeli 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1581

      Yes. But I think it is this way not because the way he looks but because the way he presents himself and behave.

    • @FinnTheHuman94
      @FinnTheHuman94 7 ปีที่แล้ว +26

      Tqú Zonderclassaforsen how about before his surgeries

    • @iSugarHeart
      @iSugarHeart 7 ปีที่แล้ว +257

      He reminds me of some fairytale character and loving fairytales i think what he looks like is incredibly cool

    • @Xynteon
      @Xynteon 7 ปีที่แล้ว +176

      It's also because he looks so buff, got a Brock lesnar vibe from him.

    • @Gigaflare8822
      @Gigaflare8822 7 ปีที่แล้ว +346

      Totally agree! After a few minutes of listening to his story and seeing the way he presents himself, you really stop beginning to see the deformity as profoundly as you did when you first started the TED talk. It's really telling: we judge people at first glance, and even though we know we shouldn't, we can't help it.

  • @DamienDrake2389
    @DamienDrake2389 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    No one is happy with their face. Its yours though, so be proud of that!

  • @justmyopinion2
    @justmyopinion2 ปีที่แล้ว +90

    A solid message to hear as I am aging. I don't always like looking at the changes in me, I was attractive when I was younger and that has faded. In the end though, I have earned every last imperfection, it's all how you look at it. What an inspiring talk and message!

    • @miapdx503
      @miapdx503 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Yes, at 63 I'm not the hottie I used to be. But I can think of many things worse than getting old...like dying. I'm going to age as gracefully as I can. And accept every wrinkle and gray hair. It comes with the territory.

    • @Iggylux
      @Iggylux 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I bet you are still attractive, maybe in another way

    • @jinimurray4090
      @jinimurray4090 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Those aren’t wrinkles!!! Those are military stripes of victory!
      You are an over comer - you have cried, silently & then maybe not so much so. But every battle life has throw at you, you have won & become stronger with much more character

    • @justmyopinion2
      @justmyopinion2 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@miapdx503, indeed.

    • @justmyopinion2
      @justmyopinion2 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Since this post, my middle aged paranoid schizophrenic homeless son passed away from an accidental Fentanyl overdose. We tried to get him to seek help, we couldn't force it. I look and feel like I have been by a train now. I guess the lesson learned is to appreciate where we are at the moment, it can always get worse in the blink of an eye.

  • @aprilblenk
    @aprilblenk 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3548

    Didn’t plan to watch the whole thing but god damn this guy is a great speaker

    • @Rahul-rr8wx
      @Rahul-rr8wx 4 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Same😤

    • @lukeskywalker3664
      @lukeskywalker3664 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Me too

    • @user-tr2dh4xx6u
      @user-tr2dh4xx6u 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      Hardly... keeps stuttering and needs to drink some water, keeps smacking his tongue...

    • @HPOfficeJetProAll-In-One
      @HPOfficeJetProAll-In-One 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      aprilblenk same haha

    • @friedeggs1576
      @friedeggs1576 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@user-tr2dh4xx6u omg I can't stop hearing the tongue noise now whYYY

  • @jimmorrison3830
    @jimmorrison3830 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3230

    As a Firefighter in New York I was burnt down my face and head... Thank you for this video.God Bless you.🙏

    • @blessingecoma9233
      @blessingecoma9233 3 ปีที่แล้ว +139

      Jim Morrison God bless and heal you. May you receive strength and grace each day to live and overcome every challenge in Jesus name.

    • @javierk2143
      @javierk2143 3 ปีที่แล้ว +81

      God Bless you. Keep strong

    • @wokeupnew
      @wokeupnew 3 ปีที่แล้ว +89

      you’re a hero

    • @jimmorrison3830
      @jimmorrison3830 3 ปีที่แล้ว +77

      @@wokeupnew omg thankU but nooo i was doing my job. I know the hazards of my job and I chose to do it because I love it..god bless U!!!

    • @feliciagallo9832
      @feliciagallo9832 3 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      You have amazing courage and strength. May your life be full of happiness and blessings. Thank you for what you do.

  • @manjeetjat6742
    @manjeetjat6742 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    We all looks like same , but he is the unique one.
    what an great achievement for him.

  • @Older_Mountain-goat_1984
    @Older_Mountain-goat_1984 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Please consider: Perhaps don't look to places like Hollywood (and the mediums they obtained them from) for a hero, these super heroes they offer. Perhaps people like this amazing man is what an actual hero is...and the world sure needs heroes.

  • @dru1969
    @dru1969 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1714

    Looking at the painted portrait that was done of his face, he looked like a Roman emperor that won the war with battle scars.. A leader..

    • @totalrobot
      @totalrobot 3 ปีที่แล้ว +46

      He's a leader to me.

    • @petewylde1227
      @petewylde1227 3 ปีที่แล้ว +45

      It's a good point though. Since yer man here was born with this predicament it is seen as an 'abnormality', but if he was like 'yeah I look like this 'cos I fought off 50 Spartans' people might be inclined to think 'this man is a super human fighter'. Which he actually is.

    • @moneypenni1694
      @moneypenni1694 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      How true!

    • @RC-fi4ix
      @RC-fi4ix 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Yes!

    • @moneypenni1694
      @moneypenni1694 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @Diamond Life ; I did too, it struck me as totally on point.

  • @GTiR23
    @GTiR23 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2366

    Thank you Robert, this 15 mins actually made me a better person.

  • @heeroyui9439
    @heeroyui9439 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    it's genuinely poignant how held back we are by this very issue. it is superficial entirely, yet it prevents so much progress for us to suffer through these insecurities.

    • @catoftruth1044
      @catoftruth1044 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      what kind of specific progress are you talking about?

  • @arthurdraper6801
    @arthurdraper6801 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    This is what bravery and courage look like in real life.

  • @yj9203
    @yj9203 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1717

    Can we appreciate how great his speaking is? His voice and confidence and everything

    • @hej324
      @hej324 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I was about to comment the exact same thing.. but u where first ❤️

    • @brighteyes4020
      @brighteyes4020 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I was thinking the same while listening to him

    • @mariempavon2916
      @mariempavon2916 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Absolutely

    • @windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823
      @windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      You can learn that in a Speech class.

    • @rwaller2106
      @rwaller2106 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Absolutely. Love his perfectly appropriate humor as well.

  • @invosahh
    @invosahh 4 ปีที่แล้ว +853

    "and they sat around the kitchen table and voted if I should come home" jesus.... this poor man, and yet he displays such stoic strength

    • @777Ryank
      @777Ryank 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      yehnahyeh
      He's tried in fire

    • @josie3221
      @josie3221 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      stoic? he seems incredibly emotionally intelligent to me

    • @richibonilla8927
      @richibonilla8927 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I'm impressed that he doesn't tear up just by saying that out loud. How horrible

    • @richibonilla8927
      @richibonilla8927 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Wim True, I haven't noticed

    • @brileeka
      @brileeka 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      When you think about that kinda thing over and over throughought your whole life it no longer upsets you.

  • @deborahrosendinincredible444
    @deborahrosendinincredible444 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    My very first love was handicapped, with slight facial deformities, he was the most beautiful human…Bryan was his name, unforgettable first love.

  • @forthefunofit5487
    @forthefunofit5487 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    As I was watching this I realized this man became more beautiful as the video progressed. He is strong wonderful example of how you can change your life for the better. I commend this gentleman on his accomplishments. Good for him.

  • @mamabear9646
    @mamabear9646 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2866

    Honestly, the longer you look at him and watch him talk, the more normal he looks. You see under it really quickly.

    • @Lifestylebydeeya
      @Lifestylebydeeya 3 ปีที่แล้ว +50

      Same here, I don’t even see the face as an issue after watching for some minutes.
      “Doctors Canvas” lolz 😂

    • @moderatesoprano9562
      @moderatesoprano9562 3 ปีที่แล้ว +196

      From what I understand, I think that the way we perceive attractiveness, and the way we judge likeability, are controlled by the same part of the brain. So when we meet perfect strangers, we are predisposed to like or get along with those who are better looking. However, as we get to know their personality better, we perceive people that we like as better looking, regardless of how they actually look, and if we reeeeeaally don't like someone, we tend to notice more flaws in their appearance. So as you listen to this guy and you like his perspective, your brain will start to perceive him as better looking.

    • @miguelangel-lb2ij
      @miguelangel-lb2ij 3 ปีที่แล้ว +31

      @@moderatesoprano9562 this sound very accurate, thanks for give me a new perspective of the beauty

    • @daywalkertpify
      @daywalkertpify 3 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      Probably because your brain connects good characteristics with this face.

    • @FelixRosas10
      @FelixRosas10 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      You took the words right out of my mouth. 💪🏽

  • @alexanderleeart
    @alexanderleeart 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1364

    14:47 that painting is really badass

    • @adelachaudh2416
      @adelachaudh2416 7 ปีที่แล้ว +54

      That looks like a photograph! That's insanely good!

    • @robiri1
      @robiri1 7 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Did you understand whether he liked it? I don't quite get what he means when he says that painter owned his face,because, at least, he didn't try to ditort it, to make it look more normal... I think this is a respectable image of this guy...

    • @HAC999999999
      @HAC999999999 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      you're badass

    • @ryg4895
      @ryg4895 7 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      reminds me of Trevor from GTA little bit

    • @Aristaeus89
      @Aristaeus89 7 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      Yeah, I think his point was a little confusing with the way he said: "other people will try to own our faces". After listening to this the second time I think, he might have added "...and that's fine." or also "...although it's hard.".
      It's hard to believe that other people will be willing to accept our unique features and get to understand how they affect us. This is, I suppose, where this part is coming from.

  • @Aaronschurg
    @Aaronschurg ปีที่แล้ว +26

    What incredible resilience. I'm sorry that life has been such an uphill battle for you, Robert! In this talk, you've taken your greatest liability and made it an asset for all of us. This is amazing.

  • @lucky81970
    @lucky81970 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Man, I REALLY needed this story. Salute to this man.

  • @JT-hl6zd
    @JT-hl6zd 7 ปีที่แล้ว +5071

    Honestly, he seems like a really cool guy and his personality completely overcomes his appearance in my opinion.

    • @timtomp1234
      @timtomp1234 7 ปีที่แล้ว +174

      Sadly judging people by looks and not by character is human nature.

    • @Michael69
      @Michael69 7 ปีที่แล้ว +31

      +I4mLegend I beg to differ, sir. Unless we've been brought up to judge people in that way, we won't tend to do it. If we are in fact brought up that way, once we're old enough to think for ourselves we can change that if we choose to and see the equal beauty within everyone

    • @timtomp1234
      @timtomp1234 7 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      People will always feel more safe and welcome around people who look alike. For example with animals that is important because if offspring looked different that is most likely because of genetic mutation which, in most cases is not helpful.

    • @chantellea9938
      @chantellea9938 7 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      You're right. I was so captivated by his personality, that i completely forgot about his looks after a few minutes

    • @penguin7798
      @penguin7798 7 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      That's what I thought too.He looks like a pretty cool guy despite his face.

  • @InnoSang
    @InnoSang 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3070

    dude started life on hardcore mode and became a father, while i'm on normal difficulty and struggling to keepp a relationship smh

  • @witzYT
    @witzYT ปีที่แล้ว +96

    What a strong mind, he calls it out all too well. Society gets so encumbered by the superficial visual elements of people which inevitably means in many cases;
    People will disregard others, missing out on the ability of seeing what the "PERSON" has to offer, creatively, intellectually, socially and emotionally.
    I love this video and the strength of this man's character.

    • @kateingram6987
      @kateingram6987 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Sometimes I think, how would we be, how different would life be for humans if we were all blind. (And we could get around by feel, if you wanna address the nitty gritty) But really, how different is a blind persons life because they aren't disturbed by their own or other's appearance(s). And yes, we would miss out on so much beauty, esp in the natural world.

    • @AlexanderNash
      @AlexanderNash ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@kateingram6987 But if everyone was blind, wouldn't how someone's face feels, the sound of their voice or something like that just become the new beauty standard?

    • @yellowblanka6058
      @yellowblanka6058 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@AlexanderNash You're probably right, and I'm sure some blind people are probably superficial in other ways - they're still human.

  • @staletoothpick9584
    @staletoothpick9584 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    Brave soul, good heart, all the best wishes to this lad.

  • @user-fm9ii8rl5o
    @user-fm9ii8rl5o 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2626

    His confidence makes him attractive.

    • @Liz-ic6jb
      @Liz-ic6jb 3 ปีที่แล้ว +48

      Indeed it does.

    • @hannahlennertkristiansen4797
      @hannahlennertkristiansen4797 3 ปีที่แล้ว +34

      agree

    • @geemithafernando
      @geemithafernando 3 ปีที่แล้ว +44

      Confidence is key

    • @pineappleflow2876
      @pineappleflow2876 3 ปีที่แล้ว +34

      Why is everyone calling him attractive? He is literally trying to tell you that looks aren't what makes you a good person. But here you are complementing his looks out of all things.

    • @Sparkz1607
      @Sparkz1607 3 ปีที่แล้ว +67

      @@pineappleflow2876 How you carry yourself, the way you act, and the way you speak, all contribute to your appearance. It's not just your face.

  • @convicsik
    @convicsik 4 ปีที่แล้ว +502

    By the time this video ended he just looked like a guy talking on a stage. Amazing how your brains perception of someone changes the more you get to know them.

    • @thoticcusprime9309
      @thoticcusprime9309 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      false. i never cared.. just wanted to see what was going on with the comments.. only thing worth noting was the uncanny valley thing

    • @joshmayne2853
      @joshmayne2853 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      he still looks like a Klingon

  • @Eden-Quest
    @Eden-Quest 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Robert, you are wonderful and precious. Thank you.❤

  • @user-lq5vs9gv8x
    @user-lq5vs9gv8x 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Лишний раз убедилась в том, что когда человек красив внутри, он воспринимается красивым внешне и наоборот. С удовольствием бы общалась с таким сильным человеком в жизни.

  • @Mrmaxmaxl
    @Mrmaxmaxl 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1506

    *What a strong man. I cant even imagine what he must have gone through. What an inspiration.*
    And im sitting here being insecure about minor things like my not perfect nose. Pathetic.

    • @jameswu3513
      @jameswu3513 5 ปีที่แล้ว +55

      Mrmaxmaxl “You don’t know what you’ve got, till it’s gone”... I used to be a neurotic as well till my health went way downhill in 11th grade, now being able to live is a blessing. It’s all perspective, wish you all the best!!! ✌️😀

    • @kevinvanhorsing5141
      @kevinvanhorsing5141 4 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      Relax boy don't let media to make u feel insecure..write your own story.!!

    • @ayoonismail329
      @ayoonismail329 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Mrmaxmaxl same I was thinking about my couple extra kg of my body

    • @shazardishfan2362
      @shazardishfan2362 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      me too brother

    • @maddyharvey7414
      @maddyharvey7414 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      I love crooked or slightly big noses on men wayyy more than 'perfect' noses. I have a tiny nose so I love when a guy has a nose with character 😁

  • @jamien.5528
    @jamien.5528 3 ปีที่แล้ว +832

    He’s married and with an 11 year old daughter actually! So happy for him ❤️

    • @kelvinmuema44
      @kelvinmuema44 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      nice

    • @HerbertMAK
      @HerbertMAK 3 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      I am not surprised at all.

    • @shaiksadique7153
      @shaiksadique7153 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@HerbertMAK then get lost and gap hard

    • @vic902
      @vic902 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Awwww 🥺🥺🥺that’s good to hear.

    • @CeeKay101
      @CeeKay101 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I dont wanna be that one guy but does she get the same deformity as him?

  • @gilnicolau7030
    @gilnicolau7030 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +32

    "Understand all the love, and the life, and the pain that is part of your face". Powerfull testimony. God bless this man and his family 🙏

  • @joaocarlosrms
    @joaocarlosrms ปีที่แล้ว +9

    What a great Man! What a great Man!
    I salute him with all my strength.

  • @johnlemon7849
    @johnlemon7849 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1629

    "Im done being the doctor's canvas"
    *Fukin Powerful*

    • @83rdgec17
      @83rdgec17 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Thanks for the insight John lemon

    • @luging2051
      @luging2051 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Thanks for the insight John lemon

    • @sam117mas
      @sam117mas 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Lemon

    • @38clonewars
      @38clonewars 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      John

    • @neighbourino2376
      @neighbourino2376 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Lemon

  • @Quasar505
    @Quasar505 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4370

    THIS is body positivity, not the kind of bs you see and hear all too much these days associated with the term.

    • @kraithaywire
      @kraithaywire 7 ปีที่แล้ว +79

      Exactly!

    • @PaperProjectFilms
      @PaperProjectFilms 7 ปีที่แล้ว +95

      You are 100% right

    • @TheSaiyanKing
      @TheSaiyanKing 7 ปีที่แล้ว +452

      Totally agree. Body positivity should be about things you cannot change about your body, not being too lazy togo for a jog.

    • @myishenhaines1706
      @myishenhaines1706 7 ปีที่แล้ว +50

      TheSaiyanKing You're disgusting.

    • @TheSaiyanKing
      @TheSaiyanKing 7 ปีที่แล้ว +299

      Myishen Haines Truth hurts, doesn't it ?

  • @almar2957
    @almar2957 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Ahhh...if only I could be so brave like Robert! And how fortunate to have his dad! I wish Robert a beautiful life.

  • @jackkelehear7766
    @jackkelehear7766 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Robert Hoge, I doubt we'll ever meet, but your talk resonated with someone who needed to hear this today. Thank you.

  • @Aritul
    @Aritul 3 ปีที่แล้ว +680

    It astounds me that the brothers and sisters at their young age were more humane than his own mother.

    • @lindaj171
      @lindaj171 3 ปีที่แล้ว +78

      Let's face it. Most prejudices are learned by children . . . from their parents.

    • @foxisslykortje1066
      @foxisslykortje1066 3 ปีที่แล้ว +38

      Yeah because they haven’t been tainted by the cruel ways of humanity yet. They’re still somewhat innocent. It’s when they hit middle school is when it all starts... Let the jadedness commence!

    • @beckyenglish4783
      @beckyenglish4783 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Yes.

    • @danieb4273
      @danieb4273 3 ปีที่แล้ว +30

      Adults have been conditioned.
      Children have no bias

    • @johnseb5856
      @johnseb5856 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      The brothers and sisters wernt in the same position as the parent

  • @evantituana1873
    @evantituana1873 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1440

    Finally the TH-cam algorithm presented me with something worth watching.

    • @PLUX4
      @PLUX4 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I know. I can finally appreciate the random videos on my TH-cam recommendations now.

    • @Honeypepper.
      @Honeypepper. 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      😂

    • @shawnee1895
      @shawnee1895 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      TedX presentations are really good. It always give me a different human perspective on things -- and most of all I learn - smile.

    • @yengyeng4091
      @yengyeng4091 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Evan Tituana A comment that is very accurate

  • @reesecaputo7232
    @reesecaputo7232 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm not sure how I found your video. Wow. Thank you. I'm so glad I did. 2016, I was diagnosed w Ramsay Hunt syndrome. I was paralyzed from my head to my foot on my left side. I have some paralization still on my left side of my face. I try to hide when taking pictures. I do turn away from the mirror. But something your brother said to you has hit me too. Your speech hit me hard. Thank you God. Thank you and God bless you. I m blessed.

  • @hlahla9479
    @hlahla9479 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    "Racing faster and faster just to stand still". This man has bars. Gold.

  • @SaiNithikaYakkali
    @SaiNithikaYakkali 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1353

    I'm an artist and I drew many portraits and I accept people's faces but I never drew my portrait because I never accepted myself! This time I'll draw my own face and I'll accept myself as it is!

  • @ChrisAlbertH47
    @ChrisAlbertH47 3 ปีที่แล้ว +584

    _"What use is it being pretty if you can't even see it?"_ - That was some amazing bit of wisdom from his brother. Sometimes, life's most important reminders comes to us from the least expected places.

    • @mariahpalmer663
      @mariahpalmer663 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      This was the most profound piece of his story to me!! Wow!

    • @lorikasper9659
      @lorikasper9659 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I agree with Chris. That statement was very sobering moment. That's all I would need to hear. The face remains a is.

    • @manuelp7472
      @manuelp7472 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yet he thought it is better to take the chance of dying by 1/4 than being blind. He makes little sense.

    • @FluxAscension
      @FluxAscension 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@manuelp7472 That was his parents choice from when he was four....
      He didn't contradict himself. His parents made the call to have the surgery with 25% chance of death when he was four. Then he was given the choice for an additional surgery when he was 14.

    • @prescott1960
      @prescott1960 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I liked that statement too. It has a lot of wisdom and power behind it.

  • @jasminebhangal9588
    @jasminebhangal9588 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    i am just a tennger , I have scars on have of my face and it's hard sometimes to face the world because it's soo judgemental i thought i was the only one but this video makes me feel so blessed to look different and stand out.

    • @vasilljones1283
      @vasilljones1283 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Then run with it and have a great life 😊

  • @wakanabe420
    @wakanabe420 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    A really beautiful man. I appreciate you

  • @brandonlewis1319
    @brandonlewis1319 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2515

    Sir you probably saved countless depressed teens that are confused in life. All I see is a hero🙏

    • @kathywade6464
      @kathywade6464 2 ปีที่แล้ว +23

      I wish i could have liked you comment many times.

    • @tesswinson9661
      @tesswinson9661 2 ปีที่แล้ว +24

      I just appreciated my face more, and
      I think he has a heart of gold and i
      Want to thank him
      for sharing his struggles with a profound sense of
      Courage.

    • @alexyancy6018
      @alexyancy6018 2 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Definitely! He did a great job :)

    • @sunnya.2665
      @sunnya.2665 2 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      Not only teens, believe me!

    • @luissantiago2493
      @luissantiago2493 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@sunnya.2665 I

  • @lindakohlman4417
    @lindakohlman4417 3 ปีที่แล้ว +502

    What a man! Intelligence, humorous, brave, kind hearted and all that and more shows in his face, which I think is just right.

    • @catg8383
      @catg8383 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      You have a similar heart, huge and special. God bless you

  • @LadyDnMiller
    @LadyDnMiller ปีที่แล้ว +6

    As I sit here. I feel like ....his parents had to learn how to love this man...but his siblings especially his brother already loved him. Saying "Whats the point of looking pretty if he cant see it." I adore his brother.

  • @petesspace9256
    @petesspace9256 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Robert Hoge is a bloody inspiration , I listened to his story from start to finish and i realised he was a truly sincere man and fully understands the meaning of Honour and integrity .

  • @sl5311
    @sl5311 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1201

    Who votes this down. This man has survived more than most of us. Incredible story.

    • @rosiered3403
      @rosiered3403 4 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      And look at how many down votes! What's wrong with people??

    • @Boufal10
      @Boufal10 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      some people using smart phones accidently click on the down votes while trying to scroll atimes.. or maybe he has enemies too you never know

    • @elenipetrakou2648
      @elenipetrakou2648 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Or maybe some PC people think this is exploitation...

    • @encalica853
      @encalica853 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      People with perfect faces realising they have it easy?

    • @thoticcusprime9309
      @thoticcusprime9309 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      false statement

  • @That1GuyMattShortz
    @That1GuyMattShortz 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1568

    Is it just me but does he get more handsome the more he talks? I have the highest respect for confidence and demeanor.

    • @Narusasu98
      @Narusasu98 5 ปีที่แล้ว +30

      I had the same feeling

    • @DorotaGabal
      @DorotaGabal 5 ปีที่แล้ว +43

      He actually does. He's confident, he's an enticing public speaker, has good posture, and seems to own not just his face, but himself. Incredibly self-possessed. You can either act like the victim of your circumstances, or own them. Given the situation he was born into, he made the best of it. And it speaks to his character. That's what makes him attractive.

    • @user-ld2sb8pr5n
      @user-ld2sb8pr5n 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      U cappin

    • @akeemhayes3363
      @akeemhayes3363 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I swear . I think it’s his intelligence and confidence that makes him really attractive 🥰

    • @cav5659
      @cav5659 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Official MB Fùtbol He’s really not physically but his confidence is.

  • @lediabonhomme2159
    @lediabonhomme2159 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    Wow! I’m blown away by this man story👏🏾I’m so glad I clicked on this video. “ choose to accept your face” what a powerful statement!

  • @margeryriviers3432
    @margeryriviers3432 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    "I didn't figure I necessarily ever be worth painting, but I was done being the doctors' canvas." What a message--one of the very best TEDx *ever* ❤👏👏👏⭐⭐