Think about the thought process you use when you make a photograph. In my case sometimes it will be representative or relational to something that is happening around me or something to be memorialized. It may be a part of a thematic project, or it could just be a spontaneous capture of something that captures my eye on the street. Here’s something. Can your photographs hold a longer and deeper meaning for you, so that you will come back to them over and over again to consider not only what you were thinking about when you made them and the experiences of the day on which they were made, but what more they can say to you on other levels or about other things that matter to you as time goes by? Finally, can they inspire and perhaps change you for your work to come?

This week I will be thinking mostly about the peaceful and thankful transition of power to Joe Biden. As I write this I am filled with apprehension about what will happen leading up to and surrounding this historic event, not only in our nation’s capital, but also in state capitals and other places across the United States. I also have considerable fears about the open hate, extremism, and potential for violence that is likely to be with us for sometime to come. But I also have a sense of optimism. The raging virus can be cured and what else afflicts America can be repaired in great part, because I believe that most Americans are so much better than what we have seen in recent days.

I have a picture I made several years ago on Flag Day. It had meaning for me then and it has even more meaning for me now. In Bucks County, not far from where I live, the Delaware Valley Vietnam Veterans organization holds its annual Flag Day Veteran’s remembrance event at one of the many Bucks County community parks. What makes this annual event unique and amazing is that volunteers plant nearly 65,000 small American flags, as well as 5,000 small black flags in the park ground commemorating Americans that gave their lives during Vietnam or other conflicts, or are missing in action, yet to be recovered – all placed in the shape of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. I went there that day, saw all the flags, listened to the heartfelt speeches by veterans and local officials and spoke with those celebrating the event. I will always remember that fine day; what it meant for my photography and my life by being a part of it.

As this week unfolds, as the Inauguration takes place and the days follow it, I will look at the picture I made and continue to think about it from time to time – because it had meaning for me then and so much more now.  I will think about those that who have fought and died for our country, those that believe in the promise of America, the challenges we face, and what America can be truly become if we all work hard to make it happen.

Stay safe,

Michael