No matter where you go, there's always something bad that can deter you. Things that make you think the grass is greener elsewhere.

I can tell you for a fact that it's not.

You can run away in search of something better, but you can always find new things to hate about the next place.

On the other hand, you can also find things you love!

It's all about your perspective.

I was born and raised in the Midwest, but specifically the Kansas City, Missouri area. Growing up, I always hated it and couldn't wait to leave, but as I've experienced new places and people, I have matured and noticed just how skewed my vision has been.

I'm a fairly conservative individual, though I identify mainly as a libertarian, and often have a difficult time getting along with liberal people, although I support their ability to make decisions for themselves. Being from the Midwest, I was used to being surrounded by people that, as a whole, mainly shared my political values. I didn't realize how much I cared about that until I left and had to face many challenges and accusations. The Midwest may not have a ton of hustle and bustle or scenic locations, but there are charms to being surrounded by people who are fairly down-to-earth, kind, and respectful.

Aside from politics, I love my home teams! (Sports, of course.) I love baseball, and I'm privileged to have grown up so close to Kauffman Stadium, where I have frequent opportunities to cheer for my boys in blue, the Kansas City Royals! As much as I love Utah, I start to miss Major League Baseball. The love and unity we share in supporting our teams(Sporting KC, Chiefs, and Royals) makes our city even more charming as we all rally for more wins! During the last few years, with World Series and Super Bowl excitement, the energy was amazing. There's a shared sense of pride and belonging in it, and I will always cherish that.

If you're willing to dig deep enough, you'll discover hidden gems and secret hideaways that will take your breath away. I alway thought Missouri was ugly, but that was before I started looking for the beauty! This summer I began to understand how stubborn and blind someone has to be to miss out on appreciating the things God created for us.

I'm not trying to say the grass is greener on my side either or convince you that I have it better than everyone else. The point I'm trying to get across is that you need to live life in the here and now, and learn to love and work with what you have! Trust me, it will change your entire outlook on life and people will notice the difference in the aura you give off. It's an attractive quality to have, being able to stay positive and pick out the beautiful things in life, rather than the ugly.

Why not start today? Find something beautiful, and cherish it while you can.

Do it. I dare you!