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