I wish to ask people, what are the things that you consider “beautiful”?

A sunset or sunrise will always be a beautiful sight to me, but also the sight of falling snow. Yesterday, Burlington saw its first sign of winter as snow flakes fell softly, but swiftly through the air to the ground. It covered my jacket that isn’t waterproof, but I still enjoyed the experience of feeling chilly in a state that is known for its low temperatures during the winter season.

I have been lucky enough to say, “I still chat with my roommate from freshman year of college,” and I was lucky enough to have a small chat with her about what we consider beautiful. The first thing she asked was, “Well, in what context?” She’s such an intelligent student. I repeated the question, and her wonderful answer was: “Seeing something broken being put back together.” I immediately thought of two things. One: a vase filled with liquid being exploded.. Two: someone finding love after being heartbroken for a long time

It’s interesting when you take out the search for specifics and just ask yourself a general question that could be taken anywhere and everywhere. Each person has their own unique views, and that itself is beautiful. She then asked the question back at me, and I listed several things that I considered beautiful: a giggling baby that starts dancing gleefully but all it looks like is them stopping around and moving their arms back and forth, a picture that captures the majestic beauty and power of water, a picture of a past moment that has the ability to still give you the feeling you felt while living that memory, watching horses play and run in grassy fields, and seeing heartfelt reunions in an airport.

Something that I find absolutely & amazingly beautiful is the act of relationships; whether it be between friends, family members, significant others, and even strangers.

My aunt lived in Paris for two years in her youth, and made some wonderful connections with people who she didn’t know before. I was able to use her connections so that a dear friend and I could spend almost a week to celebrate my 21st birthday in Paris and to also fulfill my friend’s lifelong dream of visiting Paris. The woman was basically a stranger to me, but with open arms she welcomed us into her heart and home. I know that I am fortunate to have a supportive family who understands the importance of each member and recognizes their unique characteristics. I have connected deeper with some more than others, but that’s what makes those relationships between family members more beautiful.

I can’t forget the friends who have stuck with me through the good and the bad. I also appreciate the friendships that didn’t work out because I have learned valuable lessons from each turn of events. Last, but not least, I want to thank my special someone who has made me feel lucky, special, and beautiful all at the same time. Love is a beautiful thing that people should never take advantage of, and not take for granted. It’s a precious gift.