Category Archives: Alyson

2010

There’s nothing new under the sun, but 2010 proved to a year of much learning, discovery, observation, and personal growth for me. I guess at seventeen years old, this sort of development is inevitable. We all seem to go through generally similar phases, and yet each of our experiences is distinct to our journey. I take comfort in knowing other adolescents have endured this period. Whether entering adulthood bruised and confused or serene and squeaky clean, they’ve at least managed to survive.

However, I’m equally as heartened by the fact that my trek is my own. We all make mistakes, but my mistakes are just that: mine. You cannot take away my past. Even the days I wish to forget, they contribute to who I am today. (Side note: Thank the Lord for His forgiveness and grace, that I do not have to live in the shame, fear, and regret of past decisions, but I can embrace a new day full of opportunity, knowing my willingness to turn over a new leaf is more important than “earning back redemption” through human effort, logic, and planning.)

My favorite part of 2010 was surrendering my perfectionism, and replacing my self-imposed legalism with irreplaceable, authentic relationships. I’d driven myself to unhealthy extremes, and the peace I desired was unattainable as long as those conditions continued. I honestly was only trying to do my best, be my best. But, playing God out of a fear of failure and inadequacy was destroying my ability to enjoy the many gifts in life, such as life itself.

I’ve now faced, accepted, and revealed my humanness, and I share this rather vulnerably. But, that’s a part of the beauty. My black-and-white viewpoint finally has color. Sure, it complicates things; now I don’t just THINK and DO, I also FEEL. But, as I seek wisdom and discernment and keep my emotions in their proper place, I’m able to EXPERIENCE life. For real.

What a release! From titles, unrealistic expectations, people-pleasing, judging and comparing… Instead of condemning myself or being envious, I can celebrate something for what it is. Ah, so soothing for the soul.

I want you to know that even as I focus much energy and time on my career, I’m also committed to working on myself as a person, beginning with my heart, from which flows the issues of life. I may have a goal to make “x” amount of movies by next year, but it’s just as important that I’m striving towards being the person I was created to be, and allowing the right sources to influence which direction I take.

I’d love to hear about your many accomplishments this year. But I’d be even more interested in how you’ve grown and changed as a person. What are you aiming for in the future? Maybe you want to win a bmx competition, and also learn to love your siblings, even when they annoy you. Or, perhaps you’re going to take AP classes next semester, and you also want to be a friend to someone in need. Let me know a few of your goals for 2011!!! Thanks for reading, have a good one!

Somethin’ for my sisters.. (brothers are welcome, too).

Just because it is prevalent in our society to feel insecure about a certain quality, doesn’t mean YOU’RE obligated to feel insecure about it, too. I witnessed this amongst a group of girls yesterday: Since a lot of times we struggle with body image issues (myself included), we find ourselves making negative comments about our appearances. Yesterday I heard someone say she was upset about having more arm hair than her friend. Two things here: She’s upset because she’s judging herself based on a comparison and a cultural standard. (Everyone’s body is different, and in some countries, arm hair is perceived to be beautiful.) Secondly, as she grew upset, the other girls became aware of their own arm hair, which set off a terrible chain reaction until everyone was being self-deprecating and feeling self-conscious. Keep in mind this is all because of ARM HAIR, which by the way, is entirely healthy, normal, and human. I’m not saying this is any revelation, heck, I’m not claiming my words are any solution, either. But, I’ve noticed that girls who accept and embrace fully who they are, arm hair and all, walk in a beautiful confidence that usually ends up being very attractive to others. So, ladies (and gentlemen)… I love you as you. You’re already beautifully and wonderfully made. Culture says one thing, but I want you to remember your freedom. YOU CHOOSE who and what you let into your head and heart. Have a wonderful Monday and keep shining your light! xoxo

Alyson

A thought from the tour bus…

Funny how quickly material items become treasures once the vein through which true love and joy flow is crippled. Whether by clothes, make-up, popularity, success–the human heart seeks fulfillment and glory. By what source are you being satisfied? — Being amidst this extravagant lifestyle has tested me greatly. But nothing has quite compared to the joy I experienced right before I left home; the time spent with family, the midnight prayer sessions with my best friend, the moments when I stopped to appreciate the beautiful simplicities of life. I do not, however, blame the circumstance and environment for this contrast. The opportunity to be grateful begins every day when I awake. But I want to recognize that as my list of responsibilities expands and the pressures and distractions pour in, it requires a much stronger focus and discipline to assume the sainted attitude. And I am human; I have not walked the path perfectly. — I have a growing respect for my tour mates, the Jonases. That they maintain a firm stance in their identities, remaining authentic as individuals is both significant for the world and humbling for me. Even more, their hearts are set on something much greater than anything this world offers; that’s inspiring! — I hope this message makes you think and reflect a little. To bring it to a close, I share with you this verse: “For wherever your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Good day, my friends! xo