What happens to a dream deferred?
Does it dry up
Like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore–
and then run
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over–
like a syrupy sweet?
Maybe it just sags
like a heavy load
Or does it explode?
Langston Hughes – Harlem
As I stated here in my earlier post, “The Before“, a lot has happened over the last few months. And, whether the outcome is what’s expected or not, our world will undoubtedly change. The impact of recent events was pretty evident earlier this week on my first trip in a while into downtown LA. Unlike in times prior, the area had fewer people and numerous signs of the social unrest and health crisis we’re in the midst of.
The first place I stopped was the Grand Central Market, normally a very busy venue regardless of the time or day. This time, it wasn’t. Sure there were people there, but nothing like “normal”. Of course, there were plenty of signs inside to insure social distancing and the wearing of face masks. That’s to be expected in LA these days. But, given the lack of people in the joint, it just seemed both odd & ironic. Go figure.
After leaving , I roamed the general area surrounding the GCM. If you aren’t aware, this area was one of those hit pretty hard during the recent rioting after the George Floyd killing. Boarded up windows, closed storefronts, and ongoing repairs are some of what remain. Just about everywhere though, there were Black Lives Matter posters and other messages calling for racial justice & equality. What happens to a dream deferred? In this case, it festered, it stank, and then it exploded.
Of course, there were also reminders of the ongoing Corona Virus pandemic whose impact could be seen as readily in the streets as it could within the Grand Central Market. Masks, hand sanitizer, and signs promoting social distancing were everywhere. Even the street vendors have shifted to selling Corona Virus PPE. Fortunately, most people were already wearing masks. Those that weren’t were given a few more feet (probably yards) of distancing to pass on the sidewalk by those that were. This seems to have become the norm these days. C’mon, admit it…you’ve changed trajectory to walk in the street rather than pass someone on the sidewalk at least once in the past month. Right? I’d guess, most of us have.
So, please, take a look at the images of our changing world. Feel free to drop a line in the comments to let me know what you think. And Please…Stay Positive, Work for Change & Stay Safe!
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Equipment Used
- Fuji X100 V
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–Reggie–
