This particular photograph stood out to me for two reasons. The first reason is that it reminds us that sometimes war or natural disasters, such as the recent devastating earthquake in Haiti, can relentlessly tear people from homes and other essential edifices (i.e. markets, stores, etc.). Often, that which remains serves as a reminder, a scar if you will, to those involved. But shouldn't we, as onlookers, also be involved? Are we not all brothers and sisters, sons and daughters of God? Awareness is key. It doesn't mean that we should give up all that we have in the hope of revolutionizing the world. Rather, voice by voice, we can recognize what's happening around us and lend a helping hand in some small way. Unity, then, becomes the aim. I particularly love the words of Joseph Smith when he said: "A long pull, a strong pull, and a pull all together." (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, 2007, pg. 271) Together, mankind can accomplish much more than it could individually.
The second reason, is that it reminds me to a small degree of Volgograd, Russia. I lived for a period of time in that city and felt first hand the long lasting effects that such tragic events can have for years to come. I noticed how even succeeding generations feel the power and scope of the tragic events that a nation experiences. It's almost as if it becomes an inherited part of their history, similar to the way that hereditary traits are passed on through the generations. Truly the daily events that occur in our world should not be passed over lightly and deserve some or our attention, as they not only affect one generation of people but many.


Photograph:
Salgado, Sebastiao. Photograph. Migrations: Humanity in Transition. Aperture: New York, 2000. pg. 119.

Works Cited:
Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, Intellectual Reserve Inc., 2007, 119