Every winter I settle into thoughts about how to capture some of my favorite youth in this city. The past several years we’ve shared our layers, we’ve painted our world better — last year we even created our own elements and settled inside them. Each year has its own story and its own reason to come to life. And just like each year, this one needed to be different.

We didn’t need to rip anything up. We didn’t need to add layers of color on top of the beauty that already exists. And we didn’t need to escape. We just needed to let a little bit of light in. We just needed a little bit of gentle love to reflect the unbridled energy that is inside of you. We just needed to let you shine.

Dear youth — life can be hard. It can be unpredictable. It can be riddled with questionable choices and quickly get out of your control. But you know what? It can also be pretty damn good. If you just always look for the light and always, always lead with love.

I see you. And I feel that light. Go shine, youth.