Goodness Takes Many Shapes

Submitted by:  CDK

While visiting a vendor in Ohio I had been challenged to photograph a stranger. The small group I was with used specific photographic tools near the warehouse and loading dock where we met. We were permitted to photograph many people within the industrial area. 

I set off alone to repeat a similar self-assigned challenge later that day. I walked to a nearby shopping plaza.

At a good distance from a supermarket, I saw a woman with an intriguing smile and presence. I'd ask her, I thought. Meanwhile, a man appeared from behind her. His head was down; hair beautifully wild yet shaded by the building. As they traversed the parking lot I saw people averting him. A couple of people walked a longer route - to an out-of-the-way sidewalk - seemingly to avoid any proximity to him. 

As the woman approached, the man followed a few feet later. I asked her if I might take "your" photo. Before the woman continued walking by me, Scott beamed forward and answered "yes!" 

I hit the jackpot. He was so kind and patient - letting me find and craft fun light. We moved around the side of the building, looking to find a good background with good lighting, and a place where I could rest my hand held strobe light.

In the end, as we shared more conversation, he had to leave as he had some frozen goods for another person. Ah, kindness. 

Those who may have judged his initial demeanor missed out on meeting a person with much genuine and gentle goodness. I am grateful for his time and that we met.