I don't know what it is about that website ... I really like it! I always think about what my secret would be and I can't come up with anything good. I understand that I don't have to have some deep, dark, depressing secret that's burdening my life to send something in to PostSecret. I think what pulls me towards the site is that little hope that I'll come across a postcard with something written on it that directly connects to my life.
Not like someone writing, "Maddie Gionet, will you marry me?" More like someone writing about a tough time they're going through that I'm also dealing with in my life. It's the feeling of knowing someone is either going through the same thing I'm struggling with or did struggle with and they got through it. Reassurance ... it's a good feeling.
But anyways, getting back to the point. I slowly scrolled through the secrets posted for the week, hoping maybe this time they'll just go on forever. (I hate when they end ... I always want to keep reading). Alas, the secrets did end, and I was left hanging until next Sunday when more secrets await. Before I closed the page, a website called The Burning House showed up underneath the last secret. And of course the curious girl I am checked it out ...
The website simply asks its viewers what they would save if their house burnt down. Tough question! To tell you the truth, I looked at this website about two weeks ago when I was done with my PostSecret adventure, but I didn't know how I would answer that question until now.
This was probably one of the hardest questions I've had to answer in a really long time. At first, I thought of the practical items such as my laptop, phone, iPod, a book, but those really don't have much value to me. Sure, practicality is important to a point, but I think sentimentality trumps it in this situation. So I began to think about things I would truly never want to lose because there is a memory or feeling attached to it. Each time reminded me of an important lesson I've learned in life. It was hard, but I think I've figured it out.
So here it is, my list and picture:
(I tried to list everything in order from left to right, starting at the top and going across)
Oh, the Places You'll Go! By Dr. Seuss - Dr. Seuss is a genius. This was probably one of the best graduation presents I received, and I'll never let it go. A reminder that the world is an open road and there is nowhere and nothing I can't do if I put my mind to it.
Little Princes By Conor Grennan - Another book I just recently read and loved!! A reminder that your dreams are only as big as you allow them to grow. Anything is possible if you put your heart into it.
Pink Binder - A simple binder filled with pieces I wrote throughout high school and stories I've written in my journalism classes so far. A reminder of what I'm capable of.
Origami Peace Crane - Something I made with the kids at camp during "Around the World" week. A reminder that making peace is as easy as folding paper.
AP Stylebook - I'm an editing/journalism nerd, and I'll never know when I might need to know when to use "principle" or "principal." It's important stuff! A reminder that attention to detail is critical.
Running Shoes - The old, beat up one on the right is the first pair of Asics I ever owned. Those shoes began my running career. They brought me many joys and also many injuries. They were good shoes nonetheless The ones to the right (the toe shoes ... yes, Vibram Five Fingers) are my new best friends, and hopefully the cure to getting me back on the right track. A reminder that your feet can take you as far as you will let them.
Notebook - This notebook was given to me halfway through my sophomore year to help me deal with my anxiety and stress issues. It's one of the most positive and effective ways to help me deal with my stress. A reminder that every problem can be talked down ... or in this case, written down.
Voice Recorder - I'm a journalist ... 'nuff said. A reminder that everyone has a story and it's my job to tell their story.
Blackberry - Or as some of my friends would call it, my Crackberry. :) I can do just about everything on this tiny gadget except for slicing bread. A reminder that I can't be as efficient as possible without modern technology.
Kodak Z710 Camera - Sure, it's not a Nikon or a Canon, but it's a wonderful camera that has helped me capture many memories throughout the years. A reminder that a picture is worth a thousand words.
Boondoggling String - I'm sure there's a more technical term, but that's what we camp counselors have deemed it. A very relaxing way to get your mind off any worries or problems you might have. A reminder that giving your hands something to do during an intense situation is a good idea.
Zoe the Cat - My first stuffed animal ... how could I leave her? A reminder that we all have a child inside of us.
Note - This note holds the words of wisdom I try to live by everyday. It's very hard for me to live by these words, but I'll treasure them always and do my best to live them. A reminder that words truly do mean something.
Photo Album - Pictures of friends, family, places, etc. A good way to remember the past and wonderful memories. A reminder of all of the joy in my life and all of the people who have touched my life in a positive way.
Prom Crown - Shocker that I was Prom Queen ... you're not the only one who was shocked. Not really sure why I wanted to keep it, but I'm sure there's a good reason. A reminder that I am beautiful.
Quilt - Handmade by my aunt before I was born. A reminder that you can take your family and their love for you wherever you go.
So that's my list. What's yours?
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