Over the past few weeks, a new trend on TikTok emerged. The trend consists of users sharing habits and personality traits that have developed because of the influence of those around them, creating the general idea of a “mosaic.” The term “mosaic” is typically known as artistic jargon: an art form consisting of different colored pieces placed together to create a picture. Every person we come across in the span of our lives is strategically placed in our path for a reason, to help us learn and grow into the people we are destined to be. This is what makes up my mosaic; just a glimpse of how I have morphed into the person I am today.
Whenever I hear a siren from an ambulance or fire truck, I quietly send up a prayer for their safety because my mom would always do the same when I was growing up.
My thinking changed when I learned to stop worrying about what other people were going to think about me, because a few years ago, one of my youth leaders told me to “never take criticism from someone you would never take advice from.” Her words caused a shift in my attitude towards not only others but myself as well.
I never go a day without spraying perfume on my neck because my best friend always told me to put it on my neck, so that if you were to give someone a hug, they would be able to smell it.
Occasionally when I am stressed out or upset, I play a certain song because while my best friend and I were both going through a difficult time in our lives, she used to play this specific song that never failed to make us laugh through the tears.
I have discovered a new appreciation for the current stage of life I am living in because a friend of mine always tells me how she regrets not savoring moments as they happen. She taught me to never take friendships or memories for granted.
I try to smile and wave to people I know in the hallways because every day when walking to second period, a friend of mine always does the same to me and it brightens my day.
We are all a mosaic of every person that we have ever loved. Every single human is uniquely crafted together with the little habits and intricate details that set us apart from one another. Every person you encounter has a story to tell, made up of the lessons and memories made with other people. The way a person acts, speaks and treats others does not go unnoticed, but instead, it is a mirrored reflection of one’s internal character. So, what makes up your mosaic?