my copies arrived! visually stunning and accompanied by an insightful interview, i really love it a lot. there were so many good things said by everyone, from the energy received from atiny to artistic vision to how everyone connects as a group. if i had to summarize, it would be humble respect and sincerity. coming from the perspective of someone who shares a vision of making a lasting positive impact through music, i really appreciate these nuances in ateez. hongjoong's creative direction and how he expresses what inspires him resonates deeply. the more the music you create comes from a genuine place that is authentic to yourself, the better the art will connect with the hearts of those who listen to it. artists are at their best when creating what they enjoy and feel passionate about. this is why i will always have so much respect for hongjoong, for ateez, and the whole of the producing team. ateez stands out because they are true to themselves and to their growing vision as they grow as artists. a core message in their music is about embracing our individuality and identities; because they actively live those messages, that's what creates such a genuine impact. part of the reason they connect so well as a group is because that respect extends to themselves and to one another. everyone has something valuable to say and to contribute, and even when opinions might be different, there's a careful balance to recognizing that so that everyone is heard and no one is left out. there's a concept known as "soul families", those who are deeply connected throughout many lifetimes; i personally like to also think of it as "soul constellations", individuals with an inseparable connection to one another who each shine with distinct lights and create something even more beautiful together. i fully believe this is the case with ateez; they were meant to find one another and shine their own lights in the world while changing the world with the beauty they create together. and that's why i know that whatever they set their hearts to, they can accomplish it while inspiring more people to follow their own dreams. the last thing i wanted to touch on was seonghwa's words about his personal growth through his experiences. it mirrors a lot of my own growth in self love and confidence right now, and i wanted to express respect and admiration for the way that he openly shares these parts of his journey with us. it takes a lot of strength and courage to not only acknowledge these aspects in ourselves but to convey both the lows and highs on the road towards progress. i think a part of confidence does come from being willing to embrace what we struggle with in kindness, to face that with an open heart even in the moments where it leaves us shaking the most. by respecting where we have come from, by celebrating and having pride with humility for our growth, it honours our past and paves the way forward to honour ourselves and those around us better in the future. so to all of you, ateez, thank you for being the beautiful souls and human beings that you are. thank you for being beautifully you and standing strong in your identities. thank you for paving the way with your voices and your visions for everyone who follows, and thank you for always being artists who uplift no matter how far or how high you end up flying. it is that conviction formed on a stable foundation of love, dedication, and sincerity that will continue to make a lasting impact. not just in the industry, not only in music, but in every aspect of life around the world. and as for us atiny, we will continue to be your stars in return; with love and with deepest gratitude. thank you always. 🫶🏻💚💗 #ateez #에이티즈 #hongjoong #홍중 #seonghwa #성화 #yunho #윤호 #yeosang #여상 #san #산 #mingi #민기 #wooyoung #우영 #jongho #종호 #larknotes