Outside the Box

Outside of the box. Sometimes it’s nearer than expected.

Often I’m reminded that ‘outside of the box’ could actually be ‘inside of the box.’ It requires only the right glance.

As pursuing beauty is one of my main goals in terms of life’s outlook, I’m continually tempted to think that beauty is simply out there – somewhere across the sea. A different state, an unusual landscape, the list continues. Somewhere, there must be more beauty than there is here.

And oh, as with sweet victory, I must overcome this tempting thought. Beauty is here. Right where I am. And should I go across the sea, it’ll be there too. But for now, beauty is in Michigan. Would beauty still be beautiful if no one recognized it?

Nevertheless, I’ve found beauty here, in southeastern Michigan, in a city that I’ve always had unjustified opinions about. A city so old and nearly vacant, that empty garbage floats down the river. A city so new, that I’ve been around the corner my whole life and never stepped foot until prompted by a fellow adventurer.

It’s worn down, crime filled, and relatively vacant. But that’s what makes it beautiful. If only everyone could see, too.