Chapter 1: The Beautiful Gown

As smooth silk cascades softly against her legs, a seven-year-old girl admires herself in the mirror. Her mother has just completed sewing her very first gown—a delicate pale blue number adorned with silver pleats that feels as light as a butterfly's touch. She preens, running her fingers through her hair until it resembles a gentle breeze.

Donning three necklaces, two bracelets, and a pair of earrings set with blue stones, her face radiates warmth, reminiscent of a ripe spring peach.

Standing behind her, her mother beams with pride, momentarily recognizing the faint lines of age on her own face.

“Mommy, can you put my hair in a ponytail?” she asks. With tenderness, her mother gathers the fine silk strands and styles them into a perfect ponytail. Together, they admire their reflection in the mirror.

The clock chimes, signaling it’s time to leave. “Come on, Lisbeth, it’s time to go. You look stunning.”

Yet, as she gazes into the mirror, a shadow seems to fall across her spirit. “Oh, Mommy, I’m not sure I want to wear this. What if everyone laughs at me?”

Her mother, taken aback, quickly reassures her, “Sweetheart, no one will laugh. You look exquisite.”

Unfortunately, the moment of enchantment has passed, and the girl’s confidence deflates. She swiftly removes the gown, tossing it aside, and retreats to her bedroom, swapping it for a pair of worn jeans and a tank top. The jewelry comes off, and the ponytail is released.

Although still lovely, her mother feels a pang of sorrow that her daughter is shunning the spotlight and the beauty she possesses. She instinctively withdraws, reflecting on her own experiences.

How often has she held back? What has she avoided or chosen not to express, fearing judgment from others? How many times has she allowed her own silk dresses to fall into the mud, worried about ridicule?

With a heavy heart, the mother picks up the silk gown and hangs it away, fully aware that it may never be worn again. As the clock tolls once more, she takes her daughter’s hand and leaves for the event.

Marianne, born into a family of artists, has dedicated her life to exploring creativity in its diverse forms. As a landscape designer and environmental advocate, she invites you to join her on a journey that celebrates the beauty of everyday life and the wonders of the universe.

P.S. If you’d like to contribute and join the Soul Craft family, our doors are always open! Please comment below or check our Submissions Guidelines post. We’d be thrilled to have you!

Chapter 2: Embracing Shadows and Light

In this video, "Shadow of the Silk Road" by Colin Thubron, we explore the intricate journey through culture and identity, delving into the depths of human experience and connection.

The second video, "Gaffer & Gear 38 - Tuning Shadows with Brushed Silk," provides insightful techniques on how to manipulate light and shadow in photography, enhancing the beauty in our visual storytelling.