The beautiful thing about photography is that it allows the viewer to see what they will; Visual pictures of there own personal creation. For example, it is left to us on how to act when picturing those who suffered from the recent earthquake of Haiti. Yet, for some, there is no action besides the hopes and prayers of their hearts. Indeed, we may say those hopes and desires, if they are true, will be manifest in the sharing of them. We can then say that when we can do nothing else, it becomes our duty to raise an awareness of the situation. In helping others become more aware of the world around them, we will find those that can help beyond our own abilities.This particular picture shows a child in Jakarta, Indonesia taking a bath in a bucket of "imported" water. In analyzing further, we find that in these parts of the world, there is no running water or drainage system for that mater. I was shocked. I have lived my entire life with running (and flushing) water without realizing how blessed I am. I merely turn a knob and the water is available at my disposal. As such, the Haitian problem, and the Indonesian problem can both be related. Today, one would just need to read the countless reports and constant t.v. screenings to see the suffering of the Haitian people. Deaths have reached over 70,000 with many believing the count will soar over 100,000. Now, the results may not be as extreme in Indonesia, but with the negative affects of "imported" water, and with drainage/sewage leaks, we could see the results of a very different kind of disaster.
Salgado, Sebastiao. Photograph. Migrations: Humanity in Transition. Aperture. New York, 2000. 362
I think it is very interesting that we are so fortunate and blessed with so much and we take them all for granted. In my life, I've never experienced any disaster more than a mere blizzard or rainstorm that really couldn't be categorized as a disaster. I've never had to worry about collecting water or making sure the water is purified before drinking. I take so much for granted everyday that people around the world can only dream of.
ReplyDeleteWhen the earthquake happened in Haiti, I didn't hear about it until almost a week later. I'm so oblivious to the events of the world around me because I'm too caught up in my own life. If I could be more aware of the world around me, I know I couldn't do much, but I could maybe do something to help those affected. Yesterday, a group was going around my apartment complex collecting old shoes that they were going to ship to Haiti. Those students took time out of their own life to try and do just a little to help out. If we could all take a little time to help those less fortunate than ourselves, the world would be a better place.
I agree wholeheartedly with your statements that we are deeply affected by the images photography leaves in our heads. We run over the images in our minds, over and over again, forming opinions and emotions in relation to the issues depicted in the photos. If we do not act, in addition to pondering these issues and images, we let an enormous opportunity pass us by. It is our responsibility to be aware of what is going on in the world, and do whatever we can to help. It is not often convenient or easy, but those of us who are so lucky as to have homes and meals on the table have a duty to share the result of our good fortune with others.
ReplyDeleteThis photo made me laugh and remember my mission to an extent. Serving in Peru we would see Peruvian families bathing their little children at times outside just in a little bucket as is pictured.
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