This is Lale

Sometimes life just keeps pushing you in the directions you are suppose to go in.. embrace it.

I tweeted this the other night… is that now a word… tweeted? It has been a while since I have been able to talk, write, blog… as it comes from my heart and passion and busy is the adjective of  excuse. I have written in my thoughts many times as I think many of you have also done, but the words just have not found themselves to paper.. so to speak. I think we all have in common our dreams and what we think about all the time….taking action to those thoughts and dreams can be filled with passion but more commonly fear.  What we need most is a story that assures us that if we take that jump that it has worked out for someone, some assurance… We may test the waters and take a big leap and hope that is enough.. and if we land smack in the puddle soaking wet we  hope it is drops/tears of joy for our courage and success rather than drops/tears of unsuccess at our brave attempt. But if that first, second or third attempt results in tears of unsuccess never ever give up… continue on the path of your passion, the one that fills your soul. It will never be an easy road even when those tears are ones of success but as David duChemin has said many times…..”this is a one way ticket, there are no do overs”… so take a deep breath, work through the hurdles, feel the pain, but just keep going….

As a photographer we must embrace the incredible experiences we seek out rather than the results. My last trip to the Omo, did not produce the images and stories I had hoped but it gave me more than I ever expected in my experiences with connecting with the tribes and people that have enriched my life. Photography and art is a way to share a visual connection in how we view the world and want to share it with others.

This is Lale one of my favorite warriors who at times carries an AK47. A photograph of him with an AK47 tells one story and holding a child can tell another……

What the world needs is more of imagery and art that reveals the beauty of people, places, unity and hope……. So keep living your passion, pursue your dreams and share your vision with the world.