When you have a spare half hour, go here, The World Press Photo winners' gallery for 2010.
Words fail me, as I have come away somewhat overwhelmed, saddened by the bleakness, uplifted by life and in awe.
Be aware that some of the content in the news sections are extremely disturbing, if you wish to avoid those parts, simply start at the sports section and work down from there.
It's an old adage that a picture tells a thousand words, and these photos yet again prove that true. Go, have a look at the stories within, admire the skill and dedication of the photographers, consider the subjects, consider yourself, share them with others and think.
Of course the photos in the gallery are amazing, but what struck me most were the photos documenting man's cruelty toward other men, man's ability to be cavalier about killing, and the ignorance man is willing to live with, the ignorance of what cruel lives, what wretched conditions, and what horrors other men have to endure.
ReplyDeleteI'm of the opposing opinion in that I believe everyone should see the photos that are gruesome, stained with death and violence. It's important to be reminded that inaction can have severe consequences, that nationalism is license for some to terrorize others, and that we've done a very poor job of looking out for our fellow man.
Looking through the gallery left me a bit shaken, uncomfortable, and guilty for any whinging I've done, given the peace, prosperity, and security that I have. We need to feel those things to regain a firm grip on our humanity.