Pictures

There's this photo, of a kid in a graduation gown, taken 15 years ago. The child in the photo, a boy, couldn't have been older than 6. He stood upright balancing the hat that rested on his head, careful not to fidget, while the adults around fussed with his hair, making sure it was well combed and parted, and adjusted the tie he has around his neck. It was a red tie, and his mother, or teacher, or perhaps the photographer himself was mindful in deliberately slanting it to create a desired effect. A slight untidiness to make the picture more pleasing. Even then they know how a slight imperfection will make the whole seems more natural. Perfection is seldom tolerated. Too overbearing. Too insincere.

The boy received a certificate. It was rolled up, and bounded by a strip of ribbon. A small bow was on top of the ribbon. Both are red. He held onto it, but was soon told that his grip was wrong. Right hand clench from beneath, left over. He was a somewhat reserved boy, or as his report book puts it, a shy boy with a quiet disposition. Boys of this nature, although not timid, can at times fluster easily. However this time the instructions were clearly given, and he was able to quickly and calmly re-adjust his grip.

the scroll,tilt it more, more, ok good. Don't move. Smile






The photo was taken and his mother was pleased. That was her son, and she was proud.