Me

Today I decided to write about myself. It's super easy for me to see the beauty in others. It's not so easy to see my own beauty. Perhaps I am distracted by perceived flaws or my flesh and blood. Either way, it's time for a change not just for me but for everyone. It's time to stop allowing the past and mistakes warp our perspective. The truth is, I am amazing. I am freaking brilliant. I am extremely perceptive which is why I love people and showing them their value. I am compassionate and generous. I love things to be real, raw, and honest because that's what's valuable, even when it's ugly because that's actually beautiful and not ugly at all. I'd rather people see my flaws than not know the real me which is why people feel safe around me. I am also really brave! This is a new discovery. Nothing on earth can hold me back from seeing my dreams become reality. This leads to another valuable characteristic; tenacity, some call it stubbornness. When applied to the right situation this is an invaluable treasure. I apologize to myself for any judgement or grudges I have held and for critical thoughts. I am made in the image of God which means I am so glorious and righteous. So is every person reading this. I am not an accident, neither are you. My existence is very purposeful and I intend to make the best of it. I pray you do the same. The beauty I see in myself is infinite creativity and honesty. I am a reflection of my creator and want the world to know me as the girl who loved. I will spend my life doing just that; loving God, myself, and others.

Keep your heart and eyes open,

Sincerely,
The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Jen!

Let me introduce you to my beautiful friend Jenny. I call her Jen. I first met her at college during my freshmen year and her Junior year. We grew closer with each semester until she graduated, I came home, and our friendship slowly dwindled. Recently we reconnected. She reached out to me and I really appreciate that. True friends are the ones who choose to love you despite your flaws; with every struggle, you grow closer and closer. Jenny has supported me through so much and was there for me when I experienced some of the biggest tragedies of my life. She has done a wonderful job of showing Christ like love to me and I wish I would have expressed my gratitude more when we were not separated by miles of highway, vast expanses of sky, and stretches of geographical barriers. What always impresses me about Jen is her ability to stay in touch no matter the distance. She has lived in so many different countries and still stays in touch with her roots. She has a lovely way of allowing all her diverse backgrounds to mesh and result in the creation that is the epitome of Jen. She is unique, brave, confident, and truly values people, not to mention She's the hottest Asian lady ever! ;) The beauty I see in you Jenny is your undying commitment to God, yourself, and others.  You display the verse that says nothing can separate us from the love of God in Jesus. No matter what happens, you push through. You choose to love and be loved. Thank you Jen, for showing the world what a gift you are!

Keep your heart and eyes open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Aaron

Aaron, you are probably the sweetest guy anyone will ever meet. Everyone who knows him can see and feel the magnitude of your heart. You see the best in people and that is why you love fearlessly and give your time and energy so generously. I really admire that about you. You never hold offense or if you do, it doesn't show! The peace you carry is something the world craves and your friendship is valuable beyond measure. Thanks for showing the world what a true and humble servants heart looks like and maintaining a standard of inclusive relationships. The beauty I see in your is your courage to freely give your love. That's extremely rare in the world today and yet the highest thing in demand.

Keep your heart and eyes open,

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Micah

Micah, I am so glad we're friends! I know I tell you this often, but it's just so true. You keep life simple and never get stressed over the little things. You know what's important and what you are passionate about and you pursue those things will all of your strength. I admire your faithfulness and lighthearted attitude. You are funny and brilliant! I also admire the fact that you have TONS of dreams and refuse to pick just one to follow. So many people choose to define themselves with just one sole purpose but you realize you're a woman with many facets and to focus on just one would put a hamper on the beautiful shine. So you choose to let each facet sparkle! We all should take a lesson from you on that! xoxo! 

Keep your eyes and heart open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Kyle

Kyle, I want to beyond encourage you! You are beautiful! You are fun! And your youthfulness leaks all over those around you freeing them to be themselves and embrace a lifestyle that is without limits or fears. Within you is the most beautifully tender heart that embraces and overflows with compassion and empathy. Your value for relationships and honesty is something all should desire in their own lives. You may have gone through some rough times and those times have no doubt made a lasting impression on you, but I believe it is the trials that have made you strong. The fact that you refuse to give up or give in makes you a champion. This battle isn't just for you, but for your family and for the families who also go through their own trials and are in need of hope. You will be that for them. Thanks for being you and continuing to fight for positive and lasting change!

Keep your eyes and heart open!

Sincerly,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

MJ

MJ, you are truly an inspiring woman. I really admire your heart to serve the impoverished from Haiti to Truth or Consequences, but especially your family and friends. Sometimes it is easy to be compassionate towards those who are visibly struggling and neglect those close to you. Even though you see their flaws and (according to most people)  have many reasons not to show compassion, you do a great job at loving those who you simply do life with. It takes a strong and confident person to do that. Thanks for sharing your brilliance with me and staying committed to serving those around you, even when it is hard. Know that your love empowered tenacity and persistence is not going unnoticed! 

Keep your eyes and heart open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Whole Person Himes

Okay, seriously, I think you are so legit. You are totally fearless and never compromise who you are to please any person or to fit in with the status quo. Though you may step on some people's toes, which may be an understatement, you are super brilliant and truthful. I admire your commitment to accuracy and efficiency. Within your strong and unwavering exterior is a heart of compassion that truly desires to see the world at a more peaceful and enjoyable state. This is why you love America so much. "The American Dream" represent endless possibilities and freedom to achieve whatever your individual definition of happiness and fulfillment is. That's totally you; limitless. Thanks Jesse for showing me what it really looks like to stand your ground and advocate for things that matter!

Keep your heart and eyes open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

P.S. I forgive you for all the times you turned me down for a date even though my dream to go out with whole person Himes to a school function will never be fulfilled now that you are graduated and I don't live on campus.......... Still super disappointed though...................

Alex

You are so incredibly strong, wise, and more influential than you know! I honestly am so privileged to have you as a friend! Not only have you encouraged and lifted me up in some really hard times, but you love me despite my flaws and the crazy things I say! You really are the "defender of the people!" God has used you already to mend the brokenhearted, illuminate the eyes of the blind, strengthen the week, and lead those once lost and wandering. You are a true woman; beautifully confident, radiating light that only comes from a pure heart. I admire you beyond words and miss you so much! Thank you for showing me what a true friend looks like. I will always look up to you, Alex!

Keep your heart and eyes open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Jon

You are so creative and fearless! I am so thankful to know you. Even though we live miles and miles apart and only catch up occasionally, when we finally do, it's as if time and distance never separated us at all. When it comes to art and self expression, you never hold back and you NEVER copy others. You are the definition of going against the grain. You stand out in a crowd and I pray you never learn the art of fitting in. The beauty I see in you is your compassion for your family and your dedication to opening people's eyes and minds through creativity. Though we have many different beliefs, you have never treated me as anything less than amazing and I faith that you never will.Thanks Jon, for showing me what it looks like to have an open mind yet not so open that your brains fall out!

Keep your heart and eyes open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Skylar

Skylar, you have immeasurable beauty that radiates from the very depths of your heart. This stands out among a world that is full of artificial cover ups for lack of confidence and emotional wounds. I'm positive that whoever is in your presence can tangibly feel the safe, judgment free vibe that you project. I remember babysitting you and your sisters many years ago. It's crazy how much we have changed and grown since then. I wonder sometimes if I have changed for the better, but I know for a fact that you have! The beauty I see in you is unwavering compassion and deep sensitivity. You treat others as if they have never made a mistake in their life! Even when they have, you honor them as if they are the most valuable thing on this earth because you know they are! I really admire that. When I grow up, I'd like to be more like you. 

Keep your heart and eyes open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Rebecca

Although this woman's reputation FAR precedes her (in a good way) and you may have already heard of all the amazing things she does, I am going to take the time to tell you anyway! Words could never adequately provide the honor that my mom, Rebecca, is worthy of. She fearlessly left the comfort of suburban America to move to a small town that's labeled one of the most impoverished in the US. Despite much adversity, she never gave up! Through gradually gained experience, rather than formal education, she started a child care center that has consistently ranked top in the state. Because of the love she fearlessly planted in the hearts of many, the cycle of poverty in this small town is gradually reversing.The beauty I see in you, mom, is your love fueled passion. You have been able to keep your dream and vision for young leaders of America in the forefront of your mind. You are an awesome mom, businesswoman, morally sound politician, and dedicated teacher. You have taught me how to be a strong woman by protecting my purity, serving with a compassionate heart, and never conforming to society's expectations but rather listening to my creator and trusting His guidance. I love you so much! Thanks for all that you do. 

Keep your heart and eyes open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Aaron

For the most loyal, sincere, and gentle giant that I know... My dad stands 6 foot 6 inches tall and weighs well over 250 pounds although he would probably prefer I don't tell you the exact amount. When you first spot him, which isn't hard to do, you think that he is probably a gruff, tough, big ol' dude who will squash you with his big toe if you aren't careful. In reality, he is probably one of the sweetest dads and husbands around. He is so patient and never raises his voice. In fact, he recently started volunteering at the local high school to help the girls volleyball team. A team that once had fairly average performance is now undefeated! Proof that love and encouragement will always produce a better outcome than fear and intimidation. Though my dad doesn't state his opinions often, when you ask him for advice, its pure and comes straight from his heart. He has shown me how much he cares by not only providing my basic needs, but also by loving me and teaching me how to love myself. Our family has had a lot of ups, downs and a lot of drama thrown at us from beyond the walls of our home. I respect my dad so much, especially among the statistics that haunt us today, for never leaving my family and staying committed to love.Thanks dad!

Keep your heart and eyes open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

Seth

What better way to begin this blog than by pointing out the beauty in my own household. This is my brother Seth. He is one of those people who is good at EVERYTHING! He can pick up any instrument and play like a pro in a matter of minutes. He is smart, funny, passionate, and loving. Growing up, many people had a negative view on him and thought he was an angry rebellious pest. I even thought that! After getting to know him better, watching him change through the power of love, and also changing myself, I now view him through a lens of truth. Seth, the beauty I see in you is your strength to overcome negativity and never stick to society's norms. You dare to be different no matter what people think and even when they do think poorly of you, you don't take it to heart. You know how to have tough skin while keeping a soft heart. Even though you are far from home, you'll always be close to my heart and on my mind. I love you and miss you!

Keep your heart and eyes open!

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom

The Beauty in the Myrtle Blossom

All trees begin their life with beautifully intricate roots that lead to the formation of strong trunks. From there, they branch out with strong limbs that yield intoxicating blossoms, shade leaves, and luscious fruits. The myrtle has a particularly interesting story. Individual trees find each other in the depths of the soil and become one. As they intermingle, they form a trunk full of diversity in color, texture and pattern. If it were not for the unification of the many individual trees, there would be no blossoms, leaves, nor fruit. If one of the trees were to separate from the others, it would hold no hope for survival. The myrtle tree is a symbol for all of humanity. We must come together by means of love in order to produce a more captivating tomorrow. One way to do that is to stop seeing diversity as ugly and to focus on beauty and purpose. This blog is dedicated to doing just that; magnifying the good in all. 

"The beauty I see in you is..."

Keep your heart and eyes open. 

Sincerely,

The Myrtle Tree Blossom