How do you view the world?

The way I view the world has been shaped by my experiences, from the places I’ve been to the things I’ve tried. I am conscious that I see the world through a curious screen. I always want to explore further and dive deep into things that don’t matter to most. ThoughtCatalog.com exhibits how I view the world and by including that “the secret to happiness and a great life is to figure out how to [see the beauty] all the time, wherever you are.”

PHOTOGRAPHY

One of my most notable features, as declared by my peers, has been my eye for photography. My friends and family back home always asked why I’d take seamlessly take pictures of little things, rather than the more exciting and essential elements. I am known to regard things that others may not. This has led me to see the world from a different perspective, allowing for me to visit unique places and try things that are extraordinary.

Pictures taken in Costa Rica. 

“HOME”

I’d say my “terministic screen” was shaped by the way I had been raised. Being from a small town, with a graduating class of ninety-seven, I was forced to find the beauty in things that people from a large city might not. As a result, I became more relaxed, and I live a more laid-back lifestyle. At home, the nearest Target was about forty minutes away, and the nearest airport was roughly an hour away. To feel a sense of community, I was determined to travel to New York every few months so I could explore further, and find the places that are unique to strictly the city. I think spontaneous trips to New York City throughout my life also formed my screen. I was able to examine life in a bustling city and compare it to my hometown, two places that are incredibly different from one another. Alternatively, I became more appreciative of my surroundings and appreciated the quiet aura of my hometown.

Various pictures taken in all parts of New York City. 

FAMILY

Another huge part of who I am today is the fact that I grew up as an only child. Not having an older brother or sister to look up to or rely on forced me to develop faster. According to sciencealert.com, only children manifest greater flexibility in their thinking— a fundamental trademark of creativity. Being an only child has led me to view the world unconventionally, in a more mature way in which my peers may not. From living alone with my parents, my idea of “family” has shifted. To my peers, “family” might mean getting together with extended family members and enjoying time as a group during holidays. For me, my family is my parents and I. We spend most holidays in the warmth of our household, and have come to appreciate each other more.  My family has taught me to be more appreciative and open to those around me.

My family and I at graduation.

DISNEY

Disney also developed my terministic screen. As a kid, I grew up frequently visiting Disney World. I believe that this is the reason that I still believe in magic. When I tell people about my love for Disney parks and movies, I often get made fun of or looked down upon. How can an amusement park possibly mean that much to someone? My answer is: Disney shaped me into the person I am today, someone who believes that good will prevail over evil, and that magic surrounds us every day. I have a more positive outlook on my life because of Disney.

My seventeenth birthday trip to Walt Disney World in November 2018.

The screen I view the world through is continuously changing. With all the places I visit, the skills I learn, and the people I meet, my screen continues to evolve as I grow as a person. What will my screen look like next month? Next year? Only time will tell.