Inspired…

I must know what it is in some of us that compels us to create boundaries, draw lines in the sand, and illuminate differences, imperfections…things that to me, assign beauty, interest, excitement.  I think I am wonderful, but to live in a world full of myself would be desperately dull and void of  meaning.  It is the differences in others, the colors of their skin, the texture of their hair, the expression in their fashion, the inspiration in their art, the difference in their beliefs,  the wisdom in their expression, the inflection and variety in their speech, the strength in their fortitude, in their fall, and in their rise to grace that depict beauty, purpose, joy, depth…they are the reason that I get out of bed with interest in the day ahead.  It perplexes me why even those in our family seek to make us the slaves of their expectations, who stand with gavels ready to judge the slightest deviation from their beliefs or actions.  I am grateful that you all differ from me, that you represent your own hue in the rainbow of my experience.  It is you who I create snapshots of in my mind, in awe of your individuality and awesomeness.  Thank you for being who you are, and who you desire to be…for to me, that is the purpose of our life, that is our right, that is our gift.  For we seek not to hurt, but to explore our truths, our curiosities, our passions, our fires, our fears, our hopes, our dreams…thank you for not backing down and hiding your light, and for exposing your imperfections.  I embrace you, I appreciate you, and I love you unconditionally and completely.  You are my friends and my family.