If things were different ...

Different is a scary word. It forces us to consider alternatives and to think outside of the box. Today, I have started to think about how life would be if things were different.

Hear me right. I am not dissatisfied with my everyday life, my job, my friendships my interests or what I am passionate about.

I am merely trying to begin to explore what it means to make a difference.

I recently stumbled across the photographic work of GMB Akash. An amazing photographer working in the slums of India, intent on telling a story, his work provokes much food for thought ...

He quotes:

"Today, I count myself blessed, having become a photographer. To be able to articulate the experiences of the voiceless, to bring their identity to the forefront, gives meaning and purpose to my own life."

At first I struggled to post this image, taken by Akash. It made me feel uncomfortable. Uncomfortable because of the subject matter, even more uncomfortable that at the click of the mouse I could delete it from my web-browser, pretend I hadn't seen it, and try to brush under the carpet the terrible plight of those whose voices cannot be heard. As disturbing as the image is, it tells a story.

It is time for the stories of the voiceless to be heard ...

Hello, Goodbye ...

Airports are often associated with different entry and departure points of our lives. Whether it be the departure to or return from travelling, welcoming home those who are important in our lives, or saying a heart-breaking goodbye, it comes as no surprise that in each greeting or farewell, there is a story to be told.

This evening I sat and watched Sky 3's Hello, Goodbye filmed at Heathrow airport, and I am surprised at the level of impact that just watching the hour-long programme has had. As I said, so many stories to be told, some full of excitement, some with a more sobering edge addressing the issues of assylum, family loss and bereavement. The thread that seems to run through however is that there is an amazing sense of hope, even in the most desperate situations.

I don't think I will be able to look at departure gates and arrival halls in the same way again!