Water Monitor

Diminutive he might be but his stoicism is that of a giant.  Examine his countenance and you will find the steel and determination of countless generations before him.

His is a volatile world.  At his size, predators still threaten on a regular basis.  Competition is rife for food.  And then there is the stress brought by the clumsy trampling of ignorant humans.

As he stares back through the lens at men, I understand that he is more curious than cautious.  He knows, from me, he has nothing to fear.

Wedding Tribute

On the weekend, I was flattered to be invited to photograph the marriage of a close friend. While all weddings are special, his struck me as particularly inspiring for two very important reasons.

Both groom and bride have suffered considerable personal tragedy in their lives. The impact of these events has been so great that it is even reflected in their children. Despite all that has happened to them, they have patiently persisted and they are amongst the kindest, most respectful people I know. I wonder if I would be as well-adjusted if I had experienced what they have undergone.

The second reason is the sense of unity that saturated their special day. It wasn’t a lavish affair full of pomp and ceremony but a breaking of bread for a loving couple surrounded by those important to them. More than a happy gathering of strangers, it was a community of extended family.

I feel privileged to have shared in their celebration.

Lookouts

Shielding against the glare, they all peer skyward.  “Can you make them out?”  Heads shake.

“I can hear them though,” one mutters nervously.  “They can’t be far away.”

“We should get under cover.  We don’t want to be caught in the open like this.”

“Not until I see them.  I want to know what they’re flying.”

“Don’t be a fool.  We’ll never outrun them if they spot us.”

“If we can’t see them, they can’t see us.  They’ll never see us against the sand if they’re that high.”

“I’m not taking that chance.  You coming?” The third is torn by paranoia and curiosity.  He doesn’t reply and paws indecisively at the beach with his toes.

“But we didn’t do anything wrong,” he finally complains.

“I know, but they don’t know that.”

“Okay, okay,” accepts the first.  “Let’s get back to the trees.  Maybe I can see them from there.”

“Hurry, it’s getting louder.”   The three turn and scamper back to safety, failing to notice the trail of footprints they leave behind.