"Mauve-Tinted Lenses" “And when the two intertwine they make me.” Kindness is a gift bestowed upon me by my mother. Her warmth is something I’ve known my whole life, something I’ve come to cherish very deeply. She is red in my vision, representing love, benevolence, and compassion. Expression is a gift bestowed upon me by a band director. His vulnerability was striking- never before had I seen a man of his age and profession act so…childish(in a charming way!). He is blue in my vision, representing wonder, sensitivity, and passion. I am incomplete without either half. I wouldn’t dare present myself simply just red, or blue. I need both, as I am both. A mixture of their qualities and devotions that guide me through an ever-changing black-and-white society. I see the world through mauve-tinted lenses and wish others would do the same. But wishing isn’t enough. Wishing doesn’t get things done; Actions do.  The character I’ve painted myself to be is just as complex as the individual “colors” themselves. While I pride myself on holding true to their attributes, I mustn't forget that I am my own unique shade with particular qualities and traits alike. I am creative and clumsy, generous, outspoken, and adaptive. People find the ambiance I exude to be pleasant, which I couldn’t be happier about as all I want to do is make those around me joyful. I share my presence with peers through a multitude of gestures, be it conversation, gift-giving, or even just a simple “Hello!”. What my mauve-tinted lenses can see that most others may not is that: A little can truly go a long way, and my minor acts of service may not be so minute to an individual who really, just needed a hug that day; That is what it is to be Purple.  To my benefactors, Red and Blue, I am determined to pay them back through my success. And, while money is typically the root component surmising around that trope, more than anything else I want them to be proud of who I am, and all that I’ll become. I want them to revere my character- their character, placed in me, watch it grow and blossom into a lavender array that embellishes the world, so that all may view reality through mauve-tinted lenses. I am indebted to my Mother and Band Director. Of reds, blues, purple hues, failure is not part of my palette.