Pictures

I have always loved pictures!! :) The ability we have to capture a moment in time; to literally see the world through the eyes (or lens) of another; to be able to discover new ideas and concepts, to meet new people, to visit new places, to experience new...things...is AMAZING!!

But pictures have also scared me.

I have always disliked having my picture taken, with rare exception. Perhaps like some Native American tribes, I secretly believe that photographs can "steal" your soul!! ;P Nah...but something like it. I think I am afraid of having such a fixed moment in time define me. I am not "done" yet!! Photographs can make me feel trapped, as if I can no longer change.

However false I realize this is, it has been hard to shake. I simply try to remember that most of the time we see through a glass darkly. Our eyes, ears, and other senses all deceive us from time to time as we try to discern reality through that "dark room," the mind.

Making sense of the world is a tricky thing. Our minds have the power to bend and shape reality according to our thoughts, opinions, and beliefs. We must indeed be mindful of such power. I would add to Descartes,' "[As] I think, therefore I am."


Disclaimer: I have so source for Native Americans' stance on photography and soul stealing...it's just something I have "heard" before!! :)

PS--I make too many "I always..." statements!!!! :O
PPS--I am thinking about 'pictures' because I have just started a Photography class...which I LOVE!!! Awesome teacher, great class...all-around AMAZINGNESS!! :D