Author: katy

”Embers of Hope”

1) “Nights Jewel”

I took this photo of the full moon because it looked so beautiful and mesmerizing. I was out late at night with my two friends at the park, by the swings venting to one another about a similar situation we are going through. We all just looked up and admired how beautiful it was feeling a sense of hope in the moment. The moon is a source of peace for me, calling out in its gentle glow and filling me with hope. It reassures me that everything will be alright , offering a comforting presence during difficult times.

2) “Pathway to Peace”

This picture demonstrates my favorite spot- a sanctuary where I can unwind and release all my thoughts and negative energy. It’s a place that radiates peace and positive vibes, filled with joyful memories and uplifting moments. Whenever I’m feeling down, I turn to this haven, as it has greatly supported my mental well-being. Surrounded by tranquility and happiness, this space is my safe retreat, reminding me that I can always find solace and strength here.

3) “Taste of Togetherness”

This photo shows two of my friends , which were the same friends I was speaking about in the first photo where I took the picture of the moon. This pic captures our shared love for food and the joy of spending time together. We support eachother through rough times, sharing our feelings and experiences as we eat and laugh. This bond is incredibly meaningful to me, as we help one another heal and stay motivated. In our friendship, we find reassurance that we will be okay, no matter what challenges arise.

In Teju Cole’s essay “Perfect and Unrehearsed,” the fourth photograph captivated me. This portrait captures a moment of profound distress: a man, visibly heartbroken by the death of is mother, while being held back by a group of men. His outstretched arms and pained expression show his desperate struggle, making his suffering almost visible. This picture also illustrates how the men holding him are offering support and comfort, while many others contribute to this funeral, showing the collective effort to uplift and support him during this time of grief.The dominant expression was the raw emotion in this man’s face which brings a deep sense of sympathy and compassion from the people viewing this photo. As stated in the caption , this photograph was taken in Haiti, providing an insight into local funeral customs.The presence of crosses and a sign depicting Jesus on the cross, held up high , reinforces this interpretation. The surrounding symbols also contribute to the dull atmosphere, their serious expressions reflecting the gravity of the moment. This photo shows us a moment of raw human emotion and the collective response to loss. Additionally capturing a glimpse into the cultural practices of Haitian funerals, highlighting how their mourning rituals involve the whole community. Showing how deeply people come together to support each other during hard times .