Closer

I’ve fallen in love with using this 180 millimeter macro lens on my camera. I want to get closer to everything, as if getting closer will help me see the essence of what it means to be here, to be alive.

I want to see the dirt under their fingernails, their crusty noses, and unkempt hair.

Not just the imperfect beauty of my children, but of anyone. Of any thing.

If I look a little closer, everything is rusty and peeling and asymmetrical.

As hard as I try, I can’t separate dying from living.  The petals wilt just as the shutter snaps.

 

Perfect.