Detach

The word detach originates from the Old French desattachier, meaning “to unfasten, disunite,” which is derived from the prefix des- (indicating reversal or removal) and attachier (“to attach”). The root attachier itself comes from the Vulgar Latin attachicare, which is related to fastening or joining. The modern sense of the term, “to separate” or “to disconnect,” emerged in English around the early 17th century.

Why I Prefer Snapshot Photography

Choose Joy

It’s way more fun that trying to make “good” photographs! I could snapshot for the rest of my life and be endlessly fascinated with the medium of photography because of the spontaneous nature of snapshotting. It also feels a lot more special to make photos in the spirit of play where you are no longer considering an audience or any outcomes, but just making a personal diary of your day.

Daido Moriyama – Dear Mr. Niépce

Dear Mr. Niépce: Daido Moriyama’s Homage to the Origins of Photography

Introduction

Daido Moriyama, one of Japan’s most celebrated photographers, pays tribute to the origins of photography in his book Dear Mr. Niépce. This work is a personal and artistic reflection on the legacy of Joseph Nicéphore Niépce, the inventor of the first photograph, and his historic connection to Saint-Loup-de-Varennes in France. Moriyama intertwines his own photographic journey with a reverence for Niépce’s pioneering vision, creating a unique dialogue between the past and present.


The Sacred Ground of Saint-Loup-de-Varennes

For Moriyama, the town of Saint-Loup-de-Varennes holds a sacred place in photographic history. This is where Niépce captured the world’s first photograph, titled View from the Window at Le Gras, nearly two centuries ago. Moriyama writes of this place with reverence, referring to it as a source of inspiration that has continued to stimulate his creative impulses over time.

Visiting the town years after first publishing his book Lettre à St. Loup, Moriyama reflects on the profound connection he feels with Niépce’s legacy. His journey even took him to Texas, where he viewed a reproduction of Niépce’s photograph at the Harry Ransom Center, further deepening his appreciation for the early experiments in capturing light and shadow.


The Fusion of Histories

In Dear Mr. Niépce, Moriyama bridges the gap between the large photographic apparatus used by Niépce and his own compact, pocket-sized camera. This contrast underscores the evolution of photography as a medium, from a highly technical process to a democratic and portable art form.

The book is composed of images Moriyama captured during his visit to Saint-Loup-de-Varennes. These photographs not only document Niépce’s old workplace but also juxtapose scenes of modern-day Ikebukuro, a bustling district in Tokyo. This fusion of locations connects the origins of photography with Moriyama’s contemporary world, showing the timelessness of light, shadow, and the photographic impulse.


Why Dear Mr. Niépce Matters

Moriyama’s book is not just an homage to Niépce but also a meditation on the essence of photography itself. It explores:

  • The universality of light and shadow: From the windows of Le Gras to the streets of Ikebukuro, Moriyama’s images reflect the shared language of light and form.
  • The evolution of tools: Niépce’s groundbreaking experiments laid the foundation for the compact, versatile cameras that photographers like Moriyama use today.
  • A personal connection: By placing himself in the lineage of photography, Moriyama invites readers to reflect on their own relationship with the art form.

Closing Thoughts

Dear Mr. Niépce is a deeply personal and poetic exploration of photography’s origins and its enduring power to capture and preserve moments. Through his unique perspective, Daido Moriyama reminds us of the profound connection between past and present, between the pioneers of photography and the artists who continue to push its boundaries today.

Moriyama’s journey from Saint-Loup-de-Varennes to Ikebukuro exemplifies the timeless and universal nature of photography. In doing so, he not only honors the legacy of Joseph Nicéphore Niépce but also reaffirms the endless possibilities of the photographic medium.

Light is my medium

The phrase “Light is my medium” is a profound statement, particularly in the context of art, photography, or spirituality. Here are a few ways it can be interpreted:

1. In Photography

• Light is fundamental to photography, as the word itself originates from the Greek phōtós (light) and graphé (drawing).

• To say “light is my medium” suggests that the artist sees light as the essence of their creative expression, shaping mood, form, and meaning.

2. In Art

• Light has been a medium in painting, sculpture, and installations. Artists like Caravaggio and Vermeer used light to create drama and depth, while modern artists may use literal light (e.g., neon, LED) as part of their work.

3. In Spirituality

• Light often symbolizes knowledge, truth, or divinity. Saying “light is my medium” can reflect a deeper journey of enlightenment, seeing light as the vehicle for transformation and understanding.

4. Philosophical Interpretation

• Light can be seen as the interplay between visibility and invisibility, revealing truth or essence. In this way, light as a medium might represent a commitment to clarity, revelation, or uncovering hidden beauty.

Meditation

Starting the Day with Stillness and Prayer

What’s popping, people? It’s Dante, getting my morning started here in Fairmont Park, Philadelphia. Just go slow—let life flow, you know? The bus was late today, but shoutout to Adriana, the bus driver. She’s super cool and let me know she was running five minutes late. I told her, “No rush.”

We get so caught up in this rat race of going, going, going—everything’s so fast-paced. I kind of want to go in slow-mo, like Neo in The Matrix dodging bullets. That’s how I feel: just trying to take it day by day.


Embracing Stillness

There’s no rush. I’ve found that by slowing down, shutting off my mind, and embracing stillness, you enter a meditative state.

I’ll be real—I’ve always been apprehensive about meditation. I’m an active person; I like to move, do things, stay engaged. Even on the bus, I usually stand and journal, write, or research stuff (shoutout to ChatGPT for teaching me things). But for the past week, I’ve been experimenting. I’ve been sitting down—wearing noise-canceling headphones, listening to Gregorian chants, and praying the rosary.

This is something I remember doing back in Catholic school as a boy, but now it’s different. These days, I’m using prayer as a form of meditation. When I was in Rome for a two-month journey, I spent every single day visiting a church and praying. That’s when I started seeing prayer differently—it’s not just words; it’s a moment of profound stillness.


The Power of Prayer

When I’m still, not thinking, and listening to uplifting hymns or chants while praying, I find myself disconnected from my embodied reality. It’s like being in another world. Repeating the same prayer over and over, I let go of my thoughts, my body, my tension.

“This to me is where you become Godlike, dare I say—where you find yourself so still, so receptive, in moments of peace, solitude, and quietness that uplift your spirit and make you feel good.”

When I pray the rosary, I keep my eyes closed, and when I open them, I smile. The sunrise looks like a cotton candy sky—the red hues blending into blue, so uplifting.


A Routine of Prayer, Nature, and Journaling

Starting the day with prayer and meditation, especially in nature, feels grounding. Then some journaling—modern journaling, where I might use a GoPro and speak out loud about my journey or whatever comes to mind. Treating a video like a public meditation is an interesting way to engage with journaling.

I carry a simple olive wood rosary from the Vatican as a reminder to disconnect from technology. Most people on the bus are glued to their phones, but what if we used technology symbiotically, in harmony with nature? For me, using headphones to pray and meditate helps shut down the world around me and embrace stillness.


Designing a Life of Simplicity

“Perhaps we can design a lifestyle where we subtract distractions in order to become pure—pure of mind, body, heart, and soul.”

In modern life, distractions overwhelm us. What if we didn’t rely on technology to keep us entertained? Instead, embrace the peace and stillness of prayer. That perfect 15 to 20 minutes during a bus ride could set the tone for the whole day.

I always loved starting the day in prayer as a child. It’s something I lost over the past decade, but bringing it back has filled a void in my life.


Faith as Meditation

I’m not here to be an evangelist or push a particular religion. I’m just sharing why I enjoy this and what it means to me. During my time in Jericho, I was gifted prayer beads while staying in a mosque for two weeks. Sleeping on the floors of mosques and praying with the brothers there was deeply meditative. Repeating phrases like:

  • “Allahu Akbar”
  • “Alhamdulillah”

…over and over brought me into a meditative state through stillness and repetition.

Now, by embracing the mysteries of faith in the Catholic tradition, I feel I’m reconnecting with my personal faith in a meaningful way.

“The rosary is powerful. It’s a great way to embrace stillness—something I think we lack in modern life. Just finding yourself still, open, and listening—not thinking, not doing, just being.”


Here Comes the Sun

As I’m writing this, the sun is rising.

“Here comes the sun, and I say, it’s all right.”

The clouds, the colors—it’s beautiful. Maybe that’s what all this is about: finding beauty in stillness, in simplicity, and in those small, quiet moments that make life feel so full.


Bruce Davidson – Subway

Bruce Davidson’s Subway: A Journey Through the Underground

Introduction

Bruce Davidson’s Subway is an iconic exploration of New York City’s underground world during the 1980s. The photobook presents a vivid portrait of life within the subway system, capturing the grit, vibrancy, and diversity of its passengers. With his use of color and close engagement with his subjects, Davidson created a body of work that stands as a timeless testament to the city’s raw energy.


The Essence of Subway

Subway is more than a documentation of the NYC transit system; it is an immersive experience. Davidson’s work brings the viewer face-to-face with the people who inhabit this underground world. The photographs are charged with emotion, revealing the struggles, joys, and complexities of urban life.

The saturated colors and dramatic lighting in his images amplify the intensity of the scenes. Whether it’s a quiet moment of solitude or a burst of chaotic energy, Davidson’s lens captures the pulse of the subway with remarkable intimacy.


Bruce Davidson’s Approach

Davidson’s approach to Subway was deeply personal. He immersed himself in the environment, often riding the subway late at night to document its grittier aspects. His choice to use color film was bold, as it added a layer of vibrancy and heightened the emotional impact of the images.

The trust he built with his subjects is evident in the way he was able to capture moments of vulnerability and authenticity. The photographs are a reflection of his deep respect for the people and the space he was documenting.


Highlights from Subway

Davidson’s Subway is filled with unforgettable imagery. From the graffiti-covered walls to the varied expressions of the passengers, every photograph tells a story. His portraits of individuals and groups within the confined spaces of subway cars evoke a powerful sense of connection and humanity.

The interplay of light and shadow in his work adds a cinematic quality, emphasizing the drama of the subway’s atmosphere. The book’s design further enhances the viewing experience, presenting the images in a way that draws the audience into the world Davidson so vividly captured.


Why Subway Matters

Subway is a landmark in documentary photography, offering an unfiltered view of New York City during a tumultuous period in its history. Through Davidson’s lens, we see the subway not just as a means of transportation, but as a microcosm of urban life. The book serves as both a historical record and a celebration of the resilience and diversity of its inhabitants.


Closing Thoughts

Bruce Davidson’s Subway is a masterful exploration of an iconic urban space. It captures the vibrancy and complexity of the human experience, offering viewers a unique perspective on life beneath the city. Davidson’s work remains a powerful reminder of the potential of photography to connect us with the world and with one another.

Moses Barefoot at the Burning Bush

The story of Moses at the burning bush in the Book of Exodus (Exodus 3:1-12) is a profound moment that carries layers of symbolism, including themes of humility, transformation, and the stripping away of identity.

When Moses encounters the burning bush, God calls to him:

“Do not come near; take your sandals off your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” (Exodus 3:5)

The Symbolism of Removing Sandals

In the ancient Near East, removing one’s sandals was an act of reverence, humility, and recognition of sacred space. However, this command also has a deeper philosophical and spiritual significance: it represents stripping away one’s identity before the divine.

1. Sandals as Symbols of Worldly Identity

• Sandals are practical tools for traversing the earth, protecting one’s feet as they walk through the dust and grime of daily life. They symbolize the physical, earthly identity—our status, possessions, and attachments.

• By removing his sandals, Moses sets aside these external trappings, presenting himself as barefoot, vulnerable, and exposed before God.

2. Shedding the Ego

• Moses’ act of going barefoot signifies shedding the ego, pride, and any claim to personal identity or status. Standing barefoot before the divine reflects the idea of returning to an essential state—a recognition that in the presence of the infinite, the finite self must be laid bare.

3. Sacred Ground and Transformation

• By acknowledging the holiness of the ground, Moses enters a sacred space where identity is transcended. This encounter marks the beginning of Moses’ transformation:

• From a shepherd tending flocks in obscurity to a leader of a nation.

• From a man burdened by a complicated past to a prophet stripped of fear, surrendering to a higher purpose.

• Stripping off the sandals symbolizes a return to essence, where Moses’ worldly identity dissolves, and he accepts his divine calling.

4. Alignment with the Divine Will

• Standing barefoot suggests complete surrender and openness to divine instruction. Moses cannot rely on the coverings (sandals) of the past; he must walk forward as a new man, unencumbered and attuned to a higher will.

Broader Context of Identity Stripping

This theme resonates across other traditions and philosophies:

• In asceticism and mysticism, shedding material possessions (like sandals) symbolizes renunciation of the world to embrace spiritual truth.

• In Zen Buddhism, the stripping away of external identity helps one connect with their truest, formless essence.

• In Stoicism, identity rooted in externals (status, possessions, ego) must be relinquished to live according to nature and virtue.

In Moses’ case, removing his sandals signifies:

• A purification of self, where he leaves behind his former life as an exiled shepherd.

• A moment of rebirth, where his new identity emerges solely from his connection to the divine.

Conclusion

Moses barefoot at the burning bush symbolizes the stripping away of identity to approach the divine in purity and humility. By shedding his sandals—symbols of earthly attachment—Moses embodies vulnerability and openness, preparing to receive his sacred mission. This act teaches that to encounter the transcendent, one must let go of the false self, allowing the true self to align with higher purpose.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects belonging to the family Pseudococcidae. They are common pests in greenhouses and gardens and thrive in warm, humid environments. Their waxy, white, cotton-like appearance makes them easy to identify.

Why Mealybugs Thrive in Greenhouses

Greenhouses provide an ideal environment for mealybugs to grow and reproduce due to the following factors:

1. Warm, Humid Conditions

• Mealybugs thrive in consistent warmth and humidity, which are essential features of most greenhouses. This climate accelerates their life cycle, leading to rapid infestations.

2. Lack of Natural Predators

• In an enclosed greenhouse environment, natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are often absent or in low numbers. Without these natural enemies, mealybug populations can grow unchecked.

3. Overcrowding of Plants

• Greenhouses often have closely packed plants, which provide an ideal setting for mealybugs to move between plants and establish new colonies. Crowding also reduces airflow, further creating a favorable environment.

4. High Levels of Nitrogen Fertilization

• Excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers encourages soft, succulent plant growth, which mealybugs prefer for feeding. These plants provide a rich source of sap.

5. Hidden Life Cycle Stages

• Mealybug eggs and young nymphs hide in crevices, leaf joints, under leaves, or even in the soil. These hidden locations make early detection and control difficult.

6. Transport on New Plants

• Mealybugs are often inadvertently introduced to greenhouses through infested plants or soil brought in from external nurseries.

How Mealybugs Damage Plants

Sap Feeding: Mealybugs pierce plant tissues and suck out sap, weakening plants and causing stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing.

Honeydew Production: They excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which encourages the growth of black sooty mold, further harming plants.

Disease Transmission: Mealybugs can transmit plant viruses, adding to their destructive impact.

Preventing and Controlling Mealybugs in Greenhouses

1. Inspect New Plants

• Quarantine and inspect new plants thoroughly before introducing them into the greenhouse.

2. Encourage Natural Predators

• Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or parasitic wasps to control mealybug populations biologically.

3. Regular Cleaning

• Keep the greenhouse clean by removing plant debris and weeds where mealybugs may hide.

4. Pruning Infested Areas

• Cut off heavily infested parts of the plant to prevent the spread of mealybugs.

5. Water or Soap Spray

• Spray plants with a diluted mixture of water and insecticidal soap to suffocate the mealybugs. Neem oil is also effective.

6. Alcohol Treatment

• Dab individual mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to dissolve their waxy coating.

7. Avoid Over-Fertilizing

• Use balanced fertilizers and avoid excess nitrogen to discourage the growth of mealybug-attracting succulent tissue.

8. Sticky Traps

• Place yellow sticky traps near plants to monitor and capture crawling nymphs.

In greenhouses, where controlled conditions favor mealybugs, prevention is key. Early detection and integrated pest management (IPM) practices can help minimize infestations and protect your plants.

Spider mites

Spider mites are common greenhouse pests that thrive in certain conditions, and their infestation of a palm tree can be attributed to several factors:

1. Environmental Conditions

Warm Temperatures: Spider mites thrive in warm, dry climates, which are often found in greenhouses.

Low Humidity: They prefer low humidity. If the greenhouse air is too dry, it creates a favorable environment for them to multiply.

2. Lack of Natural Predators

• In a greenhouse, the controlled environment often lacks natural predators like ladybugs or predatory mites, allowing spider mites to reproduce unchecked.

3. Stress on the Palm Tree

Underwatering or Overwatering: Stress from improper watering can weaken the palm tree, making it more susceptible to infestations.

Nutrient Deficiency: Poor soil health or a lack of nutrients can compromise the palm tree’s defenses.

Transplant Shock: If the tree was recently moved or repotted, it may be stressed, creating an opening for pests.

4. Introduction of Infected Plants

• Spider mites can easily be introduced to the greenhouse through a new, infested plant. They often go unnoticed because they are very small and can hide on the undersides of leaves.

5. Lack of Air Circulation

• Stagnant air in the greenhouse can encourage spider mite proliferation, as they prefer areas without much airflow.

6. Dust Accumulation

• Dusty leaves provide an ideal surface for spider mites to anchor and feed. Greenhouses with poor cleaning routines may encourage infestations.

How to Manage and Prevent Spider Mites

1. Increase Humidity: Misting plants or using a humidifier can create an unfavorable environment for spider mites.

2. Inspect New Plants: Quarantine and inspect new plants before introducing them to the greenhouse.

3. Encourage Air Circulation: Install fans or improve ventilation.

4. Clean Regularly: Keep leaves clean by gently wiping them with a damp cloth or spraying with water.

5. Use Natural Predators: Introduce predatory mites or ladybugs to control the population.

6. Apply Horticultural Oil or Soap: Neem oil or insecticidal soap can effectively reduce spider mite populations.

7. Regular Monitoring: Check the underside of leaves frequently for early signs of infestation.

Addressing these factors can significantly reduce the likelihood of spider mites infesting a palm tree or other greenhouse plants.

Purify

Embracing Change and Growth

Destruction. What’s popping, people? It’s Dante. Check it out: dead trees.

When winter comes, the climate becomes chaotic—lots of rain, random windy days, and then suddenly, a sunny, beautiful day. Yesterday, I didn’t even need a big coat. Change is interesting. Every single day is different. Every fleeting moment is different. And every moment, we’re evolving and changing.

I think it’s important to recognize this Flux of Life. When I see the changing seasons, the way trees shed their leaves and regrow, it reminds me of humanity. On a biological level, we’re not so different. We evolve through cycles of death, growth, and rebirth.

The Body as Nature

I like to think of the body as a battery and the sun as a charger.
What fuels me with energy and vitality is:

  • Exposure to sunlight and UV radiation
  • Eating fatty red meat packed with nutrients
  • Drinking clean water

Every morning, I turn on the faucet and drink a cup of water. It’s a privilege that I don’t take lightly. These nutrients flow through my bloodstream, and when I look at the trees, I realize we, too, undergo a kind of photosynthesis.

“The branches of trees, reaching for sunlight, echo the design of our lungs. The veins of a leaf resemble the veins in our bodies.”

When I pick up a leaf and see its intricate patterns, it mirrors how water and nutrients flow through my veins. It’s fascinating to think how interconnected we are with nature.

Lessons from the Horticulture Center

Spending time in horticulture has taught me to appreciate these cycles. One of my favorite things to do is propagate overgrown plants, giving them new life in a fresh location. It’s magical to watch the seasons change and witness this rebirth.

“Maybe there’s something spiritual about nature—a kind of miracle in the way the universe operates.”

This connection with nature isn’t just physical. On an internal level, aligning with nature can lead to purification and growth. Even though we are imperfect creatures, bound by gravity and mortality, striving for perfection is a worthy goal.

Modernity’s Distractions

Today’s world bombards us with distractions:

  • Social media and celebrity gossip
  • Advertisements telling us how to live
  • News filled with drama

These distractions stray us from striving for the ideal, for becoming better versions of ourselves. Embracing too much of modern technology leads to imbalance.

“The more you consume, the less you become. The more you subtract and purify, the more you grow.”

I believe life is a stream of becoming—a constant evolution. But complacency with mediocrity or societal norms is worth questioning. Why settle for less when there’s so much more?

Division vs. Unity

“We divide ourselves more than we come together, which is a strange realization when we’re literally on a giant rock floating in a void of space.”

Whether it’s through race, religion, or political ideologies, we create barriers between each other. My travels have taught me how similar we all are. I’ve seen division firsthand—from physical walls in the West Bank to ideological walls in our everyday lives.

Violence and division are universal, but they distract us from the truth that we all stem from the same place. We share this Earth, this life, this humanity.

Through Fire, We Rise

Suffering, pain, and grief are universal, but they’re also essential. To grow, we must go through the fire. Like dead leaves pruned from a tree, we shed what no longer serves us and emerge stronger.

“Maybe the ultimate aim in life is to grow through suffering and pain—to strive upwards despite the strife.”

Whether I’m pruning palm trees or contemplating sculptures of heroes like Hercules and Achilles, the message is the same: transformation comes through challenges. We’re bound by gravity, but we can strive to rise, to purify, and to create something new.

Final Thoughts

Maybe this modern world distracts us and separates us, but I believe these distractions are like spiritual warfare. To fend them off, we must stay laser-focused on becoming better versions of ourselves.

“Sometimes, you have to destroy yourself to create anew. Embrace the chaos, then put order to it.”

Time to catch the sunrise and let that light fuel me for another day.

Purity is Perfection

Purity is Perfection

During my trip to Rome and Florence, I remember gazing at the sculptures of ancient Greek heroes. The sculptures reminded me that I can strive for greatness, to overcome this modern world, through embodying the myth of the heroes in the art. All of these heroes have flaws that lead to their ultimate demise—demigods, half-man, half-god—mortal creatures. Despite this, I find that by viewing the beauty in the sculpture, the perfection, and the stories behind these figures, I’ve given myself permission to strive to become godlike, to purify myself, to go through the fire like Hercules, and to come out on the other side as the embodiment of perfection.

In Christian theology, Jesus is considered pure and sinless. He is the embodiment of divine perfection: light from light, God from God, embodying the Word of God in flesh and blood. He transcends the concept of a demigod, being fully God and fully human.

As mere human creatures—flesh and blood, who cut, bleed, have bones that break, and a heart that will stop beating, who will and must die one day—why strive to be perfect? I know that the path moving away from perfection leads to the decay of the physical body at a faster rate. Smoking vapes, doing drugs, consuming alcohol, and indulging in hedonistic sexual experiences will lead to our ultimate demise earlier in life. We are all imperfect creatures, but without a guide, an archetype, a hero, a myth, or God himself, why even strive to be perfect at all?

Advertising and television will tell you that you must consume, seek pleasure, comfort, and conform to the masses. The problem is, the majority of these television shows, media, music, and movies promote degenerate culture, and it feels like an attack on the souls of the world. Body positivity becomes a hallmark for commercials, making the masses feel comfortable being sick. Pharmaceutical companies remind you that it’s okay to be imperfect, that a quick pill or medicine will solve your health problems, both physical and mental. Don’t worry, you can keep eating Cheetos and Tastykakes, because we have an injection for that or a pill for this. The irony of these CEOs and people who promote junk food and processed poison is that many of them come from the tobacco industry or simultaneously work in healthcare. The soullessness of these individuals and corporations is palpable, and the corruption is real.

Let us not forget the root of the word corporation: “corpus,” or “corpse,” meaning a dead body. Dead body, dead mind, dead soul.

Our current battle in this modern world is a spiritual war—a war for your body, your mind, and your spirit.


Why Purify?

When I consider the death of Hercules, the searing of his flesh by fire, the pain is excruciating, probably the worst pain man can experience. But in the end, his body ascends to Mount Olympus, where he is seated alongside the gods. No longer suffering in his mortal body, his soul then goes to live on forever.

Like Hercules, the life of an individual will have many trials and sufferings in life. This is a part of our reality as humans on this earth. Pain will teach us and guide us in life. When we do something wrong, there is a repercussion, as we do cut and bleed. If we do something right, maybe we’ll become stronger, grow muscles, and become more wise.


All Is One

When I consider purification, I think about my current job, working in horticulture. I’m constantly pruning the plants, as the leaves wither and change with the seasons. Some plants are more formidable than others, some become disturbed by the temperature, others go into shock when planted. There are constant cycles of death and rebirth. One of my favorite things to do in the garden is to take off a piece of a plant and propagate it into another pot or in another area of the greenhouse, and watch as it grows again. By removing the dead parts of the plants, you give them the ability to regrow and become born again.

I noticed some very small bugs eating the leaves on the palm trees that were recently planted. I washed them off with water, removed the cobwebs, trimmed and pruned the little brown parts on the tips of the leaves, and soaked them with water from the soil, giving the palm tree the nutrients it needs. Maybe those little bugs will find a new home somewhere out in the forest, and hopefully, find what they need. Managing the greenhouse is challenging because it’s in a very controlled environment, so you kind of have to go out of your way to disrupt nature’s process. It’s kind of like purifying and cultivating the perfect paradise.

As much as humans are animals, I believe we are more similar to plants in a lot of ways. We require very simple things like water and sunlight in order to feel good. By drinking water, we support the flow of blood in our bodies, carrying nutrients throughout our veins and arteries, which helps repair dead cells and regrow new tissue. Our bodies are like batteries, and the sun is the ultimate supercharger. The more sunlight we get in the day, the more energy we will feel, similar to a plant undergoing photosynthesis.

I’ve been spending a lot of time in nature and around a variety of plants. When I go really close to plants and photograph them on the macro level, I recognize how similar we are in terms of the structural elements that make up a leaf. Just look at the pattern of the veins that carry the nutrients of water throughout the leaf—they are very similar to the veins that flow through our bodies. When I look up at a tree and see the way in which the branches extend into the sky, I breathe in the fresh oxygen the trees produce while recognizing the connection between the pattern of the leaves and the trees’ branches, similar to that of the lungs within my physical body. I exhale the carbon dioxide, and the trees inhale it. The trees exhale the oxygen, and I inhale it.

Recognizing these very simple patterns in nature reminds me that all is one. From the smallest cell within my physical body to the vastness of the universe and the grandeur of the stars in the sky, we are all interconnected in many ways. I think we get so caught up in this modern world, with distractions, that we have forgotten how connected we all really are. I think a lot of the time we like to divide ourselves based on specific identity groups, whether we identify with the color of our skin, white or black, Christian, Jewish, or Muslim, or whether or not we identify sexually in a particular way. I can’t help but think about how we all stem from Africa. We all have spawned from the same gene pool, the same body of water, the same cells that make up the entire population. I think we need to take a moment, step back, spend time alone in silence and contemplation, and remind ourselves of this fact. This simple fact alone, I believe, can generate a wave of peace and ripple of prosperity for the entire world. I’ve traveled this entire world, and I can tell you with 100% certainty, we are more similar than different. The more we divide ourselves, the more we will devolve as a people.


Division is a Distraction

During my time at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, I had a professor who was extremely anti-Palestinian. He wouldn’t shy away from cruel jokes and often used me and my photographs as an example for the class, considering I traveled all throughout the West Bank. He actually told me that I should go into a Palestinian home and strap a fake bomb to the chest of a Palestinian baby and make a photograph of this staged scene. The professor would often remark and laugh out loud, saying, “Allah Akbar, baby!” This experience was insane to me, considering he was a professor, someone with authority in the classroom. You can’t really talk back or do anything about it; you kind of just laugh, brush it off, and recognize that he’s just a nut job.

But I’ll be honest with you—he was being authentic. He definitely wasn’t wearing a mask or pretending to hide his feelings. He genuinely felt this way and had animosity toward a group of people, and there are probably real reasons why. During my time studying abroad, one of my classmates was stabbed and murdered on the light rail. She was a very sweet young woman from the UK and was killed by a Palestinian man in broad daylight. Maybe my professor feels the way he does because his perception of reality revolves around the terrorism and violence that occurs within the Holy Land. I’m not justifying his thoughts, but I am making the point that we all have different perspectives, feelings of hatred, love, anger, and grief.

When I would walk around certain locations, Palestinian cities in particular, many young teenagers or young adults would always ask if I was Jewish, saying that they hate Jews, want to kill them, and would draw Stars of David everywhere. They expressed general animosity toward Jewish people and Israelis. The problem is, a lot of them grow up with bad role models who only teach them to fight because that’s all they know. That’s their reality. Many of these people feel as though they only have one option: to fight back; otherwise, their people will perish.

Maybe the more authentic we become, the more we actually let out our true feelings—our raw and real emotions—the closer we can become to the truth. If we consider this idea of wearing a mask, or a personality that you put on when you go out into the public, and you’re constantly wearing it, how will we ever find the truth? If you genuinely feel a certain way about somebody, you might as well just say it instead of wearing a mask. I think the truth is difficult and hard to discover when we all pretend and don’t actually share the real, the raw, and the true. I know the saying, “the truth hurts,” but honestly, it should. It’s only through hurt and suffering that we can ever grow.


Take Off the Mask

One thing I noticed through everyday interactions in public spaces or just walking around the city is the fact that everyone’s just wearing a mask. It doesn’t seem like anyone’s authentic anymore. People have their shirts tucked in, say “yes ma’am,” “thank you, sir,” color in the lines, and all simply abide by the rules. This system of conformity, of obeying guidelines, rules, and dogma, has led to the mass adoption of the mask. The mask is a metaphor for a personality, a persona that we put on when we go out into the world. We hide our true selves, our innermost voice, and suppress it when we go into public spaces.

We’ve become so uptight. Everything is offensive, controversial, and politically incorrect these days. We shy away from speaking our mind, from telling the truth, because we’re afraid to hurt people’s feelings. What if this idea of wearing a mask is leading to a separation from the truth in general? The more that we don’t speak the truth, the more that we live in a lie, behind a mask, behind the façade, a wall, in a matrix, the worse off society will be.

I think it’s time for us to get more ratchet, more ghetto, and just start fucking speaking up, telling the truth, and stop being afraid.


Stay Focused

I think men are supposed to keep their mouths shut and just live their everyday lives. For instance, when the teacher was saying these horrible things to me in the class, I didn’t bat an eye. I never responded, just kept my mouth shut and moved on. If someone says something bad, something that doesn’t align with you, there’s no need to rebuttal, start debates, and bicker over trivial things. Misery loves company and will always try to drag you down into it.

If you’re thinking about other men, their lifestyle, their decisions, their thoughts, that’s a personal problem. Maybe this is a byproduct of low testosterone? The lower the testosterone, the less physical strength the man feels, the more they are inclined to behave through reputation destruction. Low testosterone makes you behave passive-aggressively. High testosterone makes you a man, more stoic, and less emotional.

I remember when I was a teenager and would play competitive online video games, like Counter-Strike, Halo, or Call of Duty. Some people would buy these gamer supplements, like G Fuel, Gamer Fuel, or some weird pre-workout drink to keep them focused while gaming. Ha ha ha. I just find it hilarious that there were products made for gamers to keep them focused while playing. When people play competitive video games and have a screen in between them and the physical person they’re playing against, they become so emotional and enraged at their opponents. I’ll never forget the pregame lobbies in Modern Warfare 2 or Halo 3, when people would scream back and forth at one another. These online spaces are like the epitome of low-testosterone men raging and firing with their hormonal imbalances. I think that’s what these drinks do as well. A lot of these hyper-processed, weird gamer fuels, pre-workouts, sodas, monsters, and candy, they all disrupt your hormones. The more your hormones are imbalanced, the more prone you are to rage and passive-aggressive behavior.


Life Is the Ultimate Video Game

When I look up at the moon in the morning, during dawn, it feels so close, almost like I can reach up and grab it. I think life is like the ultimate video game, and anything is possible. We limit ourselves based on our beliefs, dogma, traditions, religions, and identities that tie us down to this earth.

What if we break free from these limiting beliefs, from the chains that bind us by gravity, and strive upwards infinitely? Even if you max out your stats to level 99, you can still play the game and strive for perfection. I think we need to realize how infinite life, the universe, and the mundane moments we experience truly are. This feeling of abundance flows through me when I look up at the sky. I remember being in Zambia, Africa, looking up at the sky and seeing every star in the galaxy. Every single night I saw shooting stars. I could even notice satellites moving in the night sky. My host father and I would speak about life, philosophy, and how different yet similar our lives are because of where we live.

It’s this connection to the universe at large that reminds me I am bound by gravity. When I look up at the moonlight, I’m reminded that I can strive to move upwards, to touch the sky. Although I am bound by gravity, I will cut and bleed. Despite the suffering, I will never stop striving.

I believe that through purification, trial by fire, we ascend upwards. By shedding your skin, or pruning the dead, through simple actions like removing toxins, drugs, alcohol, people, and even physical locations from your life that make you feel down—make you feel like you’re being pushed down by gravity—you become lighter and float upwards.

Bruce Gilden – Haiti

Bruce Gilden’s Haiti: A Masterpiece of Grit and Humanity

Introduction

Bruce Gilden is a photographer known for his striking, confrontational style, and his work in Haiti exemplifies this approach. The photobook captures the resilience and spirit of the Haitian people, revealing moments of profound humanity amidst chaos.


The Essence of Haiti

Haiti is not just a collection of photographs; it is an exploration of life in one of the world’s most challenging environments. Gilden’s lens focuses on the raw emotions of the Haitian people, juxtaposing the vibrancy of their culture with the stark realities of poverty and struggle.

Gilden’s images confront viewers with the intensity of his subjects. The close-up compositions and stark contrasts reveal the beauty and resilience of the human spirit. The photographs demand engagement, compelling the audience to look beyond the surface and connect with the stories behind the faces.


Bruce Gilden’s Approach

Gilden’s signature style is marked by his aggressive use of flash and close-range shooting. In Haiti, this approach captures the intricacies of the environment and the raw emotion of its people. His photography seeks to reveal the truth beneath the surface, unfiltered and unpolished.

While Gilden’s methods have occasionally drawn criticism for their confrontational nature, his work in Haiti demonstrates an empathy for his subjects. He spent time immersing himself in the culture and environment, building a connection that is evident in the intimacy of his images.


Highlights from Haiti

The photographs in Haiti are striking in their ability to evoke emotion and tell stories. From haunting portraits to dynamic street scenes, each image is a testament to Gilden’s ability to find beauty in adversity. The book’s design, with its high-contrast black-and-white imagery, complements the starkness of the subject matter, focusing the viewer’s attention entirely on the people and their surroundings.


Why Haiti Matters

Bruce Gilden’s Haiti stands as a powerful example of documentary photography. It provides an unflinching look at life in a place often ignored by the world, emphasizing the resilience and dignity of its people. Through his lens, Gilden challenges viewers to confront their assumptions and engage with the realities of life in Haiti.


Closing Thoughts

Haiti is a masterclass in storytelling through photography. It captures not only the struggles of a nation but also the strength and vibrancy of its culture. Bruce Gilden’s work reminds us of the power of art to reveal truths, evoke emotions, and inspire empathy.

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