I came across this quote as the credo for renowned Depression-era photographer, Walker Evans:
Stare. It is a way to educate your eye, and more. Stare, pry, listen, eavesdrop. Die knowing something. You are not here long.
I sat with that thought as I read through the photographer’s profile over at the Smithsonian website and it wasn’t until much later that an overwhelming sadness came over me. The pandemic, the division within my country, we’re missing out on so much because so many opt for selfishness and hate over compassion and community.
It’s sickening to see people celebrating their vote for a grifter of a president hell bent on destroying this country and making as much money off us as possible. But we are the disease. White supremacy is built into every fiber and document America has woven into its foundation.
The American Dream is no longer striving to create something better but rather it is now to tear others down, make them feel lesser and unworthy.
Instead of spending time listening and learning to each other, there is only shouting and spewing hate. Burnt-orange peel supporters seek to retain the comfort and privilege they have without wanting to acknowledge they have it.
Imaging living a life so close-minded, so focused on yourself, so closed off from the beautiful communities and cultures around us…I pity them and their all-consuming hate. It is a miserable way to live when none of us are here but for a drop in the bucket of time.