Lessons in youth.

This post has absolutely nothing to do with my photography. Actually, it does sort of. My life has been pretty hectic this past year. I have been busy with photo shoots, editing, snuggling, driving, and just normal life things... I have been so incredibly absorbed with my own life ( I could elaborate on this subject, but that would just continue this self absorbed state I would so very much like to grow out of!), that I have missed some of the most beautiful little (but so huge) things that make this world so worth living in.

My little brother turned 17 on October 5th. He got his first job at the end of Summer, and has started his Junior year of high school. A few nights ago I came home and he asked me to sign a birthday card for a man named Gary. My brother works at Safeway, and Gary is a homeless man who is known by everyone there. My little brother got over 70 people to sign a card for Gary. On Gary's birthday, my brother took him to Johnny Carino's for dinner. If you have ever eaten dinner at this restaurant then you know it is not cheap. My brother, who drives a mid 80's Subaru Brat (so cool!), and could easily spend his paychecks on gas and crazy doodads for his car, decided to spend his money to give someone who has nothing, something.

I only found out about this overhearing my mom telling someone about it over the phone. I am reminded to slow down and listen. Look at all the beautiful things happening every moment of every day. There is so much good in this world, and it literally is right in front of us.

-marika