Something Hopeful Photograph

 

I slipped on the ice a few days ago. I dread the days when all the pathways freeze. I must carefully place each foot and every step requires effort and concentration. So my hope is captured in the puddles I see on campus concrete; my hope is captured in melting snow. To some the photo looks like a captured cold Utah winter, but I know the days before this photograph; I know of the snow before it was overdrodden. I know of the dropping temperatures, and the fear of the wind because I lost my winter coat. I know of the clouded mountains, where my favorite sunset silhouette is stolen away. I step on the water puddles with glee. I can nearly run along the pavement. The snow is melting. I am unsure how long the few degree increase will remain. Perhaps tomorrow another snow will fall, refreezing the melted snow, creating even worse conditions. Yet, for now, I smile at the hope of warmer weather and days where I can run free without worrying if my steps are placed just right. Sunnier days are up ahead. The melting snow told me so. 

I intentionally tried to capture the path without other students passing through. I didn’t want their feet in the photo; I didn’t want my feet in the photo. Because it isn’t about their feet or my feet, it is about the clearing up of the path. My hope isn’t in the idea that others can walk along the path without struggle, or even the comfort that others fall on the ice like I do. The hope is that soon all our journeys will be lighter and easier. Soon, we will not be busting our butts just to make it an inch further.