Life Lessons & Bubbles

Do you ever have those days where you feel like you're not good at anything? Me too. I've had about three weeks of those days just because of something someone said about my photographs - that's why this blog has been strangely silent. I let their words destroy me. I slowly put my camera down, stuck it in a box, and put it in the back corner of my closet. I cried a little, and sat around feeling sorry for myself. I let their words echo in my head until I agreed with them. Pathetic is the only way I know how to describe my mental state. I was overly dramatic (as usual) but words can hurt. I doubt I'm the only one who has ever felt this way, and I think there is something to be learned from honesty which is why I share my little life lessons on this blog. Here's what I learned: You are not defined by what other people think of you. That's a hard one to swallow if, like me, you're a natural born people pleaser. But it is true - take a gulp of water and swallow it down.

I don't photograph because I want to be the best or an extraordinary artist or so that people will like me. I photograph because I care deeply about people and I want everyone to feel loved and valuable. I photograph because there is a lot of beauty that we miss. I photograph because when I do I feel happier.

I photograph because I believe that we weren't meant to see the world as a scary place where the news drags you down. I photograph because somewhere in a little corner of Waukesha there is a little kid blowing bubbles and running through the grass without a care in the world. It's then and there, in my backyard, that I find assurance - life isn't meaningless, life is truly beautiful.  

Look for lovely in the little things, get over yourself,  seek God first,  put others before yourself, try and fail, and then try again. Don't put your dreams in the corner of your closet, you have to share them because more often than not they weren't meant just for you.

Until next time, shine on.

-Carley