Pastels and Passion

As I was looking through several pictures of sunsets, it occurred to me that I often feel a sense of frustration with pastel colors, because they are reserved and muted, lacking power and boldness. They are pretty, but not necessarily beautiful. These gentle colors can be soothing, but they rarely match my passionate and active nature. I have always preferred vibrant colors - royal blues and brilliant oranges. These colors are moving, impacting. They are strong. In contrast, pastels appear almost passive. They are wall-flowers that last in the most temperate of climates, but quickly wither in the face of any challenge. As a result, I appreciate and enjoy vibrant colors more than those that remain softly in the background. Perhaps it is dangerous, or at least unwise, to have such a preference for the extremely bold or active. After all, it is those of passion that often make rash judgements and or throw themselves too fully into every endeavor and every individual. With this is mind, it is necessary to remember the advice of Benjamin Franklin, "If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins." Nevertheless, it is undeniable that brilliant colors always suit me much better than more temperate ones.