Everything Happens For a Reason

The last year of shooting has taught me a very important lesson. Whatever is supposed to happen is going to happen. Whatever I find to shoot that day is what I'm SUPPOSED to find. It doesn't matter which way I go, if it's supposed to be there, it will be, no matter when I get there.
Deep, huh?

I have been carrying a collection of pictures for Darwin for the last three weeks. He had asked for them since many of them were pictures of his friends from this neighborhood from 8 years ago (many have passed since then). I had not seen him for 3 weeks, but every day I went out, I brought the pictures because I know they meant something to him.

Today I changed my routine, and decided to walk out of the exact opposite side of the building today. Literally the second I walked out. there was Darwin. He waved, smiled, and and yelled "You got them pictures?" I did indeed. As simple as it was, I could see how much it meant to him as he looked through the pictures.

I had a nice long conversation with Darwin as he told me that this is the neighborhood he has lived his whole life in. He moved here at age 5, and has lived here since. He is 55 years old now.
I was really glad to see him today. It's been so cold here the last few weeks I wasn't sure what had happened. Darwin explained that, as much as many people do't want to,sometimes you just have to go to the shelters. You just can't survive at night outside.

I truly admire Darwin's optimism and outlook. My outlook on life is WAY shittier than his, and I know I have more, at least in the way of material possessions. I guess you really can learn from anyone. I know I have a lot of learning to do.