Scars as Souvenirs

Scars. Most of us have them and whether they are big or small they all tell have story. Some simple and funny, some we don't fully remember, but some are life changers, they can captivate, move, inspire and shock you.

I started this piece under a year ago and slowly but surely it is growing and changing. I find it difficult sometimes as the photographer, as the human, listening as someone opens up about such intimate moments of their life.  At times,  I have to keep myself composed, but sometimes, composure goes out the window. I have not mastered yet the ability to look into the face of a cancer survivor, or hear the pain in the voice of someone who wields their own pain through release of a blade, and not show an emotional response. Honestly, I don't know if I even want to master that because in a way it's that connection to humanity that keeps me grounded. It brings me back to the now, reality and the things that make up life, my life and the lives of others. It reminds me how quickly life can be extinguished and how in those moments,  sometimes the will to survive is the only ounce of strength that keeps you holding on.

Is it hope, faith, determination, miracles or just plain luck? Whatever you want to call it, I say congratulations and Thank-You for being brave enough to bare yourself to me, so that I in return can share your story with the world. I can only hope more people continue to lend me their strength.