Appreciating The Beauty Around Us

As I look back on the past seven days, I am humbled by the beauty I encountered; both inside and outside of Binghamton's city limits. Our perception of beauty is just that; our own perception. Beauty can be found in nature, people, animals and even in the arts whether it be visual, musical or dramatic.

 My week began with an afternoon at Confluence Park in the heart of Downtown Binghamton. For those who are not familiar with the area, this city park gets its name from its location at the confluence of the Chenango and Susquehanna Rivers. I arrived on the rare occasion when it was not being used for wedding pictures.

I couldn't think of a better place to wind down after several days of non-stop activity.  It was the perfect spot to relax before heading into the new work week.  

I shared this oasis of beauty with one other soul. A lone fisherman who didn't seem to mind that I was taking his picture and possibly revealing his private fishing spot.

On Tuesday, I attended Broome County's Broome Bands Together concert at Otsiningo Park. These are free concerts for area residents to gather and enjoy the music, the beauty of the park and each other's company.

Later on came a trip up to Harpursville to Animal Adventure Park. I am embarrassed to admit that this was my first time up to the park. However, it will definitely not be my last. I find it amazing that we have at our disposal a facility such as this only 20 miles from Binghamton.

Friday brought the kickoff of the annual JulyFest Binghamton weekend. Downtown Binghamton was overflowing with positive energy. The streets came alive with event goers enjoying the beauty of art, the live music and the perfect weather.

The seven days concluded last night with a unique talent show, Twisted T's Twilight Talent, held at Snidley's in Endicott. The night provided a unique mix of hooping, belly dancing, burlesque and drag with the performers showcasing their talents both inside and out under the stars. It was the beauty of dance, makeup, comedy and sheer artistry throughout the evening that served as a perfect ending to the week.

Granted, these are only a few examples of where we can all find and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. Many of you may have attended a play, went kayaking on one of the nearby rivers or hiked one of the countless nature trails nearby. Maybe you settled down in a hammock in your backyard watching the clouds drift lazily by or you witnessed your child hitting their first little league home run. Any of these moments can be beautiful in their own way. It is how we perceive our surroundings and the people we share them with that creates the beauty.

Wishing all of you a beautiful week ahead.