Something Hopeful Photograph
Reminders
In times such as these, it is easy to forgot the impact I might have on those around me. I am constantly being gaslit by my own mind, being told "People don't need you", "People are annoyed by you", "Who are you to think you have anything to teach other people". In those moments, I pull out the reminders. Letters, notes, cards, things slipped across the table during school and things mailed from halfway across the world. Some are from friends, reminding me of a time I was able to lift them up. Some are from dance students and gymnasts, thanking me through shaky handwriting and flattering drawn images. I treasure each word, because they remind me that I am more than my challenges.
I created this image as I read through the letters this evening, piling them one on top of the other. These reminders are the definition of hope: something to cling to as I move forward in uncertain times. The image looks a little chaotic, just as hope often does. Looking it all the notes at once is overwhelming, but reading one at a time brings hope and healing. The same is true for life: as a whole, all at once, it can easily become too much. But taken one day at a time, it can become inspiring and beautiful.
I love the layered meaning you have here in your photograph and with your artist statement. I really love saving and reading old letters too:)
ReplyDeleteThis is a great example of capturing a hopeful feeling through a media lens. This form of record keeping is so intimate and hardcopy. I have always loved sending and receiving handwritten letters. You should read or listen to the devotional "Bread or Stones: Understanding the God we Pray to" given by Michael Wilcox. It is one of the most incredible talks i've ever listened to, and it talks about letters that God has written to us!!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND :)
ReplyDeleteI love this, Tiff! I completely relate to what you say about those negative comments that so easily slip into your mind. I get them all the time too! It is hopeful to me to see some of the notes you've received and be reminded that there are so many kind people in the world who want to brighten up the world and let others know how much they love them. And I think about a note you once wrote me after Finding Nemo and how much I treasure that :) You lift me up and I want to do the same for you! Love you!
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