Life on the Outside

So I really like photography. It slows me down and helps me see things I'd otherwise pass over. I'm taking an on-line photography course, and one assignment was to go "on location" to capture images that tell a personal story. I chose the Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden.

The story I sought to tell is of a journey through isolation, loneliness, rediscovery, and reemergence. For me, it's the story of life during COVID; but this may resonate for others who have faced challenges recently.

The Memorial Garden is very peaceful and comfortable within its boundaries, but there are visual reminders everywhere that there is beauty outside. I meant for the chosen images to reflect solitude and reflection, then the realization of life "on the outside," and then the choice to unlock and walk through the gate to live life more fully.

Fortunately, we don't need a camera to see reminders of hope and possibility. But we may need to slow down, look, stay open...and then step forward.