Wally Points

Wally Points, originally uploaded by Darius Goins.

Anyone that really knows me know that when I'm out & about, i will give an ear to the homeless and listen to their story. I've met some interesting people over the years that were homeless due to various circumstances. Since getting deeper into photography, i often take portraits of the homeless and offer them a picture of themselves if they'd like. I usually turn the situation into a positive one when approached and asked for some change. I will simply reply sure, in exchange you let me take a portrait of you. I have had some decline, but most have found it rather flattering. Some even shed a few tears due to the lost of hope & loneliness from their situation.

This guy's name is Wally. I met Wally at a park where he said this was his pet duck. I have to admit it was a bit odd in the beginning, but after seeing him & the bird interact it was clear to see they had formed some type of bond. Wally had been homeless for 17 years and had a upbeat spirit and positive outlook on life regardless of his situation. I guess I am posting this as a reminder, our situations are never as bad as they seem. Sometimes the most simple things are those that we take for granted because we feel it is a given. Until we are without those things is when we realize how important it was to us. Be thankful and have a blessed day. Peace