Working hard to leave a viable legacy to my children has always been important to me. Recently, while working on our newest family venture, a small restaurant attached to our motel, I was talking with my wife as both of my youngest children scurried around, in and out, as children routinely do. As I looked outside the building in an attempt to gain sight of my kids to ensure they were safely playing, my eyes rested upon a sight which caused my heart to jump and mind to envision perfection.

As a young person I became introduced to the art of photography. Over the years the art has grown into a full-blown obsession where I seemingly am constantly in a state of exploration for the perfect photograph. My camera and I have adventured far and wide as my attempts of refining my eyes have become good at times and occasionally great but more than most, mediocre yet rewarding to this man with desire to create.

As I looked out upon our property, attempting to pinpoint the location of my youngest, my eyes fell upon her. Nestled with a nearby bush, seated upon a large rock, my child sat. With seemingly no care or motivation evident, Riyann simply gazed forth into the horizon. As I noticed her pose my mind immediately raced to the thought that I had to capture the moment which undoubtably would result in an award -winning shot. I quickly retained my photographic gear and quietly moved into position. Following getting a multitude of shots my child discovered me and went about her normal routine of fleeing to the playground where she was intent upon showing her good old dad the latest trick she had learned.

Following watching and showering her with compliments I quickly rushed to my desk and downloaded the perfect picture, depicting the solitude of youth. Before me, in all its glory, truly was the perfect photograph, at least in this daddy’s eyes. Showing it to others brough silent contemplation, smiles and eventual congratulations over capturing such an impactful scene. I went as far as doing something I had never done before with one of my photographs, I entered into a contest hoping the world would see this awesome photo of an awesome child. To my dismay, no comment or selection was made by the judge so I would be satisfied with my simple enjoyment of the image.

As I gazed upon the image which now hangs in the business, I find happiness. As I listen to the comments of guests as they peer upon the canvas I feel joy, not simply because of the accomplishment of capturing such art but of my knowledge of the symbolism. I think about how even as with children, the hustle and bustle of our everyday life can overwhelm us momentarily.

Taking a moment to sit in a shaded place while gazing upon the horizon, simply taking it all in is priceless. As with my child, sometimes you must just sit and watch as things unfold around you. Our reluctance to wait rather than act many times can contribute to the overwhelming sense of being over filled with life’s stressors. Take the time my friends, sit in silence and soak up the beauty around us.