Blonde hair, blue eyes and a smile bigger than the gap between her two front teeth: that’s my friend Shelby. Though only six years old, Shelby has a love for life that is an inspiration to everyone she meets. I was lucky enough to meet her while volunteering at a VSA arts event for children with disabilities.

The event, "Start with the Arts," is an education program geared towards utilizing arts-based curricula to increase disability awareness, encourage expression, improve learning and grow self-esteem. I have always enjoyed and participated in the arts, but it was Shelby, the other children and volunteers that allowed me to see the joyful smiles and freedom that expressive arts bring into one's life.

VSA arts (formerly Very Special Arts), an international nonprofit organization founded in 1974, strives to create a society where all people with disabilities learn through, participate in, and enjoy the arts. This event exemplified VSA's mission and more. Throughout the day it became clear to me that regardless of age, race, gender and ability, the arts do not discriminate. We all have the freedom and power to express ourselves and should do so on a regular basis.

Though we all have the freedom, everybody is different. But if you ask me, that's a pretty cool thing.

Though Shelby and I didn't look the same, I met her while she was in her element: the world of music. She was emotionally free, learning who she was and sharing her passion with a very diverse audience. Diversity, especially in the arts, is important and keeps us in this "melting pot" we call our world.

So this next week, take some time and use the arts as a form of expression. Sing in the shower, paint a room, do the Hustle or quote your favorite movie. Whatever it is, discover an artistic way to express yourself.

As a result, you'll learn more about yourself, gain self-esteem and ultimately realize the importance of the arts. After that, become involved in the arts, encourage someone in the arts, or better yet, help someone become active in the arts. Hopefully then you'll see a beautiful smile, too, even if it is missing two front teeth.

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Ingredients:

• Willingness to help
• An ounce of creativity
• Opportunity to give

Caring Time:

• 120 minutes

Cost:

• FREE!

Results:

• Smiles
• Creative expression
• Beautiful art
• New friends