beauty.

 

Beauty. 

What does that word mean to you? It's really such a subjective idea. But that's no reason to go through life without finding the beauty in everything that surrounds you. Sometimes you can hang on to the beauty you view, but other times it's such a fleeting thing. Fall, for instance, is something that we really get to appreciate here in the Midwest. Not everyone sees the changes we see here. It's a really lucky thing, if you ask me, being able to see the beauty in the release of the dead things. The trees show us how beautiful letting go can be. The colors are so rich and vibrant this time of year, but the season is always gone before its time. It never lasts long enough. So, we just have to hold on to it while we can and then let it go until we meet its beauty again. Yes, there's so much beauty in nature. 

Nature. 

That word refers to more things that I think we take into account. A mother-child relationship, for instance, is pure nature. The nurturance of one's offspring. Making sure diapers and clothes are clean. Making sure the water is running and heat is on. Making sure the environment that surrounds them is clean. Making sure bellies are full. Now, whether that means using formula or breastfeeding, that's up to you. But why is breastfeeding such a taboo thing for so many people? Why does it just rub some people the wrong way? Why have I heard it referred to as "unnatural"? Because I mean, isn't it the most natural thing a mother can do for her baby? Now, I mean no disrespect to mothers who choose to bottle feed or aren't able to breastfeed. But let's just all take a moment to see breastfeeding for what it is: beautiful. 

Yes, there's beauty in all that surrounds us. And I guess that breastfeeding rant is just to remind us that we truly can find beauty even in things that may make us uncomfortable--if for no other reason than a simple lack of understanding. But all the same, it's important to remember that there is beauty in everything, and just because it's not your definition of beauty, it is a thing to be respected as it means something to someone else. 

Take a moment to find the beauty around you today. You'll thank yourself.

xo-

chelsea