Thoughts about the Instagram world

I know there are many comments and concerns regarding social media and its deceitfulness into perfection or a certain way of life. I've definitely wrestled with my own intentions regarding the promotion of my life or self on
instagram and this blog. And I have deep respect for those who have taken momentary sabbaticals from social media as a way of re-prioritizing their time and/or hearts. Although I think there will always be this tension between the positive and negative uses and outcomes of social media, I try to, as much as possible, focus more on the inspiration and connections it brings, as well as the platform it provides for being creative.

I enjoy peaking into the different sized windows of the small instagram boxes to see a world elsewhere. Worlds of architecture, adventure, homes, love, farms, food, culture, and more. I love the art form that takes place in the way families nest or the way the seasons illuminate different aspects of beauty in the land of the country dweller or that of a city dweller. I love the search for knowledge and new places, the appreciation for the little things, the determination to make dreams come true, the acceptance of the imperfect, and the honest pursuit of a slower and intentional lifestyle. I love the aspects of other cultures that are beautifully captured in a way that tells a story. And I love seeing how this tool has brought an opportunity for people, from different parts of the world, to appreciate and learn from each other, to offer support and encouragement, to make simple things beautiful, and to inspire and be inspired in this journey of life.

I hope that when others view my instagram or my blog that it wouldn't be a cause for comparison or assumption of perfection, but that it would be perceived more as a creative and thoughtful journey of one person's life, who loves to spend most of her time traveling, learning, reading, baking, reflecting, and living life with loved ones. I hope it inspires you to be creative, to love learning and exploring, and to take pleasure in the simple things in life. At the end of the day, I'm merely just a human, with lots of imperfections and insecurities, who is often easily embarrassed, and over thinks things way too much. But I'm also a dreamer, sometimes driven a little too much by emotion, who loves beautiful things and the solace of a quiet space, who is moved by the stories of others and often reads about the past. And Instagram just happens to be a creative outlet I thoroughly enjoy, not to mention it's a great place to get a daily dose of Paris. :)

*Photos of Honeymoon Cafe & Bar in Houston, TX. 

What aspects do you enjoy about social media? Have you also had to wrestle with thoughts of comparison?