REAL HUMANS

Sometimes we go through life on autopilot, concerned about our daily endeavors and can't open our eyes to the community and human nature around us. I've always enjoyed talking to strangers and, even more so, documenting my encounters with them. We can learn so much from one another if we are open to the possibility of doing so. These are the strangers I've turned into friends.

Hudson

Originally he moved to the U.S. from Africa and spent a majority of his life in San Francisco. After visiting his cousin, who is a teacher in Las Cruces, he decided to bid on a house here because of the cost of living. He didn't think the offer would go through since he bid lower than the asking price, but the bank accepted. He's been here for 4 years and spends three months a year in Africa. "I'll head back there right after I vote," he said.

Ryan Floyd

Floyd is a 97-year-old World War II and Korean War veteran from Deming, N.M. On Sept. 30, he flew out with other veterans to D.C. to visit several monuments. The trip was sponsored by Honor Flight, which receives donations solely from fundraising. I got to thank him for his service on his way out of Milagro.

Andrew

His image reminded me of this quote by Ronald Dahl that I believe we should all adhere to: "A person who has good thoughts cannot ever be ugly. You can have a wonky nose and a crooked mouth and a double chin and stick-out teeth, but if you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely."

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