Shadows of Humanity
Inside the specter that is human life is where we are the most visible. Like tree branches in winter, we cast shadows of who we will become in our spring. Photographer Ansel Adams said: “We live in the shadows.” Personally, I love the shadows for it is there I find solace, moments to contemplate my world and Creation. You do this also, although you may not use the same words to describe it.
Each of us, given social media, expert speak, and on-the-spot news in any language, are ever more aware of the pitfalls that exist in our physical world. There is so much to grasp, sort through, wonder about and datum surround us in white noise. Where do we begin? Can we make sense of it all? How scared am I? What’s next? Ah, and that's just our physical world.
Given the same aforementioned information, we glimpse only shadows of what this all means to our individual lives and that of the people in our six degrees of separation. It overpowers our thoughts and leaves us less able to act on any specific issue. In my more lucid moments, I realize my voice is being swept away in the winds of time, along with yours, and yours and yours…
We look to the governments of the world to handle the “big stuff.” That isn’t always satisfactory either: so many power agendas, elections on the horizon, anarchy, greed, hatred and infighting.
Now that I’ve completely depressed you, well maybe myself, I want you to know I do have hope. No, I am not an optimist nor am I a pessimist. I am a human being living in a complex world alongside my sisters and brothers. THIS is our hope—one another.
Ansel Adams also said: "A photograph is usually looked at - seldom looked into." At this moment in our history, each of us is pictured in this photograph: look closely! We can no longer hang in the shadows of unawareness.
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