As 2016 crept up on us, you probably took the time to set a few "New Year" resolutions. Whether it be going to the gym more consistently, focusing more on school and less on going out, or just simply to live life to the fullest, we all have at least a couple things in the back of our minds that we would like to change about ourselves this year. But...regardless of what your resolutions were, my only wish for you is that you love bigger this year.
We live in a cruel, messed up world. We live in a time where people are more concerned about themselves than they are about the people around them. We only love people when it is convenient for us- when we are loved in return, or when they meet our standards. But what happens when someone doesn't meet our subjective standard of what is worthy to be loved? Do we kick them to the curb and pretend they don't exist? Do we pass them on the street without even meeting eyes?
Whether you believe it or not, everyone on this planet is deserving of love and happiness. There are broken, corrupted, and helpless people searching for friendships to save them. The power of a smile and "hello" can change someone's entire day. So what if they can't afford the same clothes that you can, or drive a car good enough, or look the way you want them to look? We need to stop focusing on what's on the outside and start focusing more on the purity and genuineness of the heart's around us. This year, my wish for you is that you take the time to look at people's souls instead of their faces. You will be surprised at just how beautiful everyone in this world really is.
I hope you choose love this year. I hope you choose to welcome every one you ever meet with open arms. I hope no one ever comes to you without leaving happier. I hope that you realize that you have a soul SO beautiful that it's scary. I hope you, yes you, make a difference.