This is a deeply personal blog post for me.  I have debated on whether to share this but I’m feeling compelled to do so at this point.

The picture below is of Gary Blum, a close friend of mine.  Gary died unexpectedly on 3/19/2011 – 4 years ago.

It is hard to imagine that four years have passed since this amazing man was taken from us – all we have left now are memories and photographs – both of which sustain all touched by Gary’s presence in our lives.

Yes, I include photographs.  This photo – one that was not professionally taken, just an amateur photographer [me] having fun on a weekend backpacking trip – is quite possibly my favorite photo I’ve EVER taken.  Though this photo is not technically sufficient in any way – looking back now, it’s so poignant.  Gary was laughing at his daughters for their silliness during our lunch break by a waterfall – that heavenly light shining down on him.

Gary was an amazing husband, father, and Christian man.  He was a faithful servant who gave everything he had to others.  I feel lucky to have known Gary.  We all wish we had more time with him to create more memories, for him to be here with us during all the events in our life.  But, I will say this – he left pieces of himself with everyone he met.  He lives on inside of us – all his goodness, kindness and love – are what we now share with others.  An amazing man who taught me so much!

There are two things I want to stress in using this anniversary & this image.

1) To the world – Spend the time to get some of your photos printed.  This photo is a beautiful memory of a wonderful man who improved the lives of so many.  I am happy to say that this photo is framed on the wall proudly at Gary and Nancy’s house and I smile at it every time I look at it.  You take photos for them to be seen.  Let everyone see the joy and emotion in the people you love!  Seeing this photo brings back so many warm memories.  If it was just stored on a computer, how could we appreciate it?

2) To photographers – YOUR PHOTOS ARE IMPORTANT.  Regardless of your skill level, training, expertise in the area – your photos are important.  Never underestimate the power or impact of your photos.  You may not see it today, tomorrow or even a year from now, but there will come a time that you will find a photo that you’ve taken and know how powerful it is to you or someone else.  Is this photo technically proficient?  No.  Is it an amazing photograph?  Yes.