5
Votes
Christina Brown's picture

Extending a Helping Hand

When on a photo shoot at the local botanic garden,
I encountered a man who could neither hear nor speak.
He made several friendly gestures to me about the beautiful garden.

Later on when I was shooting calla lilies, he came along and saw me attempting to rearrange an unwanted stem. He wanted to be helpful by holding the lily steady with his hands. He did not think I was photographing his hands, but I thought that made a far more impactful photo than a solitary lily. I felt the juxtaposition of the soft, delicate lily against his rugged, rough-hewn hands would be more effective. The lily, to me, symbolizes his gentle soul.

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2 Comments

Christina, beautiful image and story I hope you make an effort to get him a print.

I wish I could have gotten his info but he did not hear or speak and as soon as he helped me with the flower, he left. I had no idea that the photo would be one of my favorites until I uploaded it. I often send photos to strangers when I have the opportunity but, unfortunately , this was not the case. Thanks, Paul, for your visit.