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No Shopping Malls and Fast Food. A Slower Pace Of Life

I think Mark Twain was right.

Photography has always been a constant in my life, a passion that has shaped my experiences and perspectives. Yet, as time has passed, I’ve realized that it’s not the center of my universe. It’s a beloved hobby, a way to capture and cherish life’s fleeting moments.

Recently, I was chatting with an old Navy buddy. I haven’t seen him since 1981, but for four years between 1978-1981 we were the best of buddies, and we have stayed in touch over all these years. We still have a mutual connection, with similar levels of education and work life. The big difference is that he became blind many years ago and it is bitter-sweet for me knowing that I can’t show him what I’ve become, though he is quite aware of my career in photography. He is still a very intelligent guy and we do have a lot in common though, particularly our political and religious viewpoints, not to mention our similar careers prior to his blindness.

Reflecting on our conversation, I found myself pondering my own life’s trajectory. Like everyone else, I’ve faced ups and downs, joys and sorrows. Yet, today, I find contentment in the simple pleasures of life. I’ve relinquished the pursuit of photographic fame, choosing instead to focus on creating images that bring me joy and sharing them with on this blog and with my friends and family. I stopped doing commercial work in 2017. I continued organizing photography trips with friends for a few years, but the pandemic and my emotional state of mind have forced me to back away from what was once a very active, social, photography life. I let go of the “Rock Star” dream long ago.

Mark Twain’s quote, “Obscurity and a competence. That is the life that is best worth living,” resonates deeply with me. In late 2017, I retired from commercial photography, drawn to the freedom and peace of pursuing my passion as an enthusiast. This decision was influenced not only by my health but also by a growing desire for privacy. The constant attention and demands that accompanied my career had become overwhelming. I longed for the quiet solitude of creating without the pressure to impress or satisfy the needs of others.

As I embraced obscurity, I realized that true fulfillment lies in the simple pleasures of life. The joy of capturing a beautiful scene, the satisfaction of sharing my work on my blog, and the comfort of spending time with loved ones far outweigh the fleeting rewards of fame. Photography has become more of a personal journey, a way to connect with the world on my own terms without having to involve everyone I know.

While I may never achieve the level of notoriety I once sought, I’ve found a deeper sense of purpose and satisfaction in my current path. Photography is no longer a means to an end but a cherished part of my life’s tapestry. And as I continue to explore the world through my lens, I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my vision with others, one image at a time.

Obscurity and a competence. That is the life that is best worth living. I think Mark Twain was right.