We take the simple things of life for granted: an outdoor run in a neighborhood, viewing the sunset on a beautiful afternoon, listening to a Sunrise Easter Service at Ponto Beach. Many people today including myself forget that these are privileges in life. They are not owed to us and we aren't titled to any of it, but God has blessed us with these many opportunities and gifts so that we may live a beautiful life.
I believe the concept of beauty has been blurred and distorted through years of commercialism and materialism. Advertising is the greatest offender; taking a word that represents kindness, care, love and much more, turning it into a something that represents stick-figured woman, wearing heels, and airbrushed in makeup.
True beauty can be unique to each individual holding her meaning. For me, beauty exists in many little packages wrapped by God. I like to think of them as little presents. With our wedding only days away I've become a monster, not a bridezilla but mainly an emotional softy. I can't seem to stop reminiscing about childhood memories while drinking tea and creating a few happy tears. (My sister can't believe that I now cry.) I was having dinner at my parents. We all sat around the table (who does that anymore): my mom, dad, sister and I. It wasn't until this very moment that I begin to appreciate the youth I once was and the family connection I had. It was different when I was little, like it is for all of us. There were few cares and few worries but these experiences I took for granted. It wasn't until this past weekend that I finally looked back at my childhood and realized how blessed I was and continue to be. Beautiful is a family that has stuck together and created memories we look back on as my sister and I prepare to walk down the white asile. Beautiful are the eye opening lessons the God brings us when we least expect them. This evening He's taught me to slow down because "Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. And today? Today is a gift. That is why we call it the present." (-Babatunde Olatunji)
Through living windows, I invite you to join me on my journey as I search for the meaning of true beauty...
