He Stood Apart
Monday, November 16, 2009 at 12:00AM 
I had just arrived to the school that day – dipping in and out of classrooms at Shepherds Junior School studying the simple structure and wooden desks, tiny bits of chalk, faded newspapers and journals stacked on simple shelves, and wondering if the children were hot in their sweaters. I studied their warm expressions with curious eyes and shy smiles that rapidly eased into pure kid silliness.
But one boy stood apart that day. He had discovered my audio recorder on the teacher's desk and took the initiative to interview his classmates at lunch. "What is your name? What is your class? Where do you stay?" he asked each of his friends in rapid-fire fashion. I loved that he didn't ask permission. I loved that he just did it. Bold. Full of thought. Beyond his years. He stood apart.
Reader Comments (11)
this post made my heart burst open!
so quickly are we to scold children for doing something without asking...i LOVE that, instead, you saw what he did as good! : )
i love that you relish in seeing his strong character and curiosity in his actions.
seriously loving this post and the hope that it holds.
I agree. That is so important, to see what he did that way, and so rare. You rule!
I agree with the others...and I love how this photo illustrates the story. Masterful.
Can you share with us in a video or other means the interview? Eager to listen to this reporter on the scene!
Yes, I'll integrate his audio and images from the interviews in a video story we intend to create about the school experience.
Beautiful photo of standing apart from the crowd.
Oh, goody! We get to hear and see more. Thanks. Forgot to mention that this ace reporter/interviewer reminds me of M.E. who shoots video and interviews characters like me;-) So sweet. The questions mildly resembling those of her mom;-)
My son's name is on the blackboard. :-) Your pictures cram in so much life and detail, yet the story is so still and simple and unfolding.
Wonderful photo.
What a great story, I love the picture too, you are so good at capturing the emotions and character of your subjects!
Epic smiles.