Negative space.

If life were like a painting, I think we often forget about the negative space. We get caught up looking at the parts that stick out and draw most of our attention; the things we want to look at. Then we begin to walk away, moving on to the next painting- perhaps something more interesting. But as we continue on our way, we look at the painting again, but this time we notice the negative space. That area behind the shapes that were painted on... the shapes created in the space between. At this point we realize that the masterpiece is not created merely by what we choose to see at our first, hasty glance. It is created by those prominant shapes, but only when supported by the space surrounding them. The true beauty lies in the negative space. That area that holds the rest of the painting together, but often goes unnoticed. If only we could shift our focus, to see the negative space. To see those around us who make our lives so much more beautiful, but often remain unnoticed and unappreciated. What if we allowed ourselves to see the negative space? I think our lives would be so rich and so sweet.

To the ones who lay in the negative space: thank you for making life beautiful.

The Interlude.

You know how you buy a CD and there is always that one track that is not more than a minute or so long and someone thought it would be neat if they called it an interlude? I think I just realized why they are important.

I often think of my life in terms of a song or movie. Sometimes, I try even try to write that song or play out the movie in my mind. Usually, there is always something that keeps me from reaching such an end and I am left defeated. Those interludes never seem complete, but I often find myself wishing they lasted longer; that the music of those tracks were an entire album.

I think my life is at an interlude. A time where I don't necessarily understand why things are the way they are, but there is still something good. A time when I don't have answers and I am left wanting, but a time which is also complete. If it were the entire album, perhaps quantity would detract from quality. I guess that is why I should be thankful for the minute or so I have and move on.

Dandelions.

I can't for the life of me remember her name. She told us. We either didn't understand or forgot since it was foreign to us. The little girl selling flowers; weeds actually. They were dandelions. Begging us to buy the flowers she had. Little girls are supposed to be overjoyed by flowers, not be at the mercy of others to buy them for a few Lei. She had beautiful brown eyes. I don't really remember this for sure, but thats what I picture. Big, beautiful, brown eyes. But they were tired and worn as if nearly overcome by the dark side of this world. Doesn't anyone care that she is out there all alone? I wonder if she is even 10 years old. I wonder if she knows what it is like to really be cared for. I remember Emily asking her for her name. She had a younger girl with her. I assumed it was her sister. Rick is kindhearted. He took them to McDonald's and bought them something to eat. I wonder if they are still outside, still on that street, still trying to sell those flowers...