Sometimes this is when I wonder most about people and where they are going.
Imagination of a beautiful person age 10

"In the midst and panic, chaos, feeling confused, helpless and consumed by emotions that in the moment were impossible to pinpoint I had the opportunity to radically change the prison I seemed to be living inside.
Nature…experiencing nature through another lens, the camera. Being outside, hearing the sounds around me and existing in the present moment gave me a sense of gratitude, peace and ease that had not previously existed."
- Lauren

The last day of 2022, I had the honor to walk with an aspiring photographer, Em in my Awareness Photography outlets. We looked at seeing life differently and opening an awareness of our environment. Here are some "street photography" images captured by Em and her words of reflection:
"Photography is a way to keep the world in a permanent moment. You can inspire yourself and others by taking a few moments to look at the world through a lens and create some new perspectives.

"Everything has its flow"
Photo by: Angela (beautiful woman in recovery)

Whenever I have conversations with school aged kids about the many layers of illicit drugs I ask them to share their thoughts and what they wish to share with others. Here’s one of the cards “THINK” and I reflect on this word.
Is it “THINK” about others
Is it “THINK” about choices
So many meanings “THINK” can carry, but maybe it’s just sitting in silence and “THINK” about the world we live.
- Cath Adams

Who Am I?
"I am the rock stuck in a hard place, frozen in ice. I feel the flow of the underlying river bubble around me. It provides direction and shape. It's cold and quiet, yet tranquil. The heat from the rising sun begins to warm and crack the barriers which keep me stuck. I do not move. I instead feel and notice the gentle flow, which is life. I am the frozen rock amongst many in this brilliant winter landscape. I long for connection, and though I am seemingly locked away, the stream connects me to all. I am not alone. It takes time and energy to melt ice. I wait for a warmer season with eagerness and patience."
- Caro
Photography by Caro (amazing human in recovery)

This was Emily's type of play and maybe this is what heaven looks like. Whatever the unknown to me, I know she is flying and her soul is free of this world. She has walked into our lives in many ways that we are so in awe. We absolutely ache for her earthly presence but she has such a stronger presence in our lives watching over us and showing up when we least expect. Whether or not you believe, her spirit has appeared in many lights.
And just like Emily on earth, she is marching into heaven with purpose!
- Cath Adams

Being creative with instant results
In this world where everything is instant, we tend to become accustomed to the fast-paced lifestyle and lose the essence of "time." However, looking beyond and being creative with the instant cameras can build upon patience and awareness of our environment.