Those of us who strive for perfection will see the cracks in everything. Those of us who accept life as imperfect will not see all the cracks, but see the beauty beyond those fractures. I’m one who looks for beauty to counter the world’s tension, especially here in the U.S.

I chose images for this challenge that offer “hope and redemption and spiritual insight,” as requested by Ritva in her challenge.

Let’s start with spiritual insight. Experiencing a total solar eclipse is a most spiritual encounter. I remember the awe as the day became dark and the only thing to remind us that we were not alone was the ring of light around the moon. Even thinking about it brings tears to my eyes.

Next is fog which darkens the sky and, when thick, creates a blanket of gray mist. The following image was taken during a sunrise walk with my dog while camping. How amazing as the sun shows its dominance. How small are we humans!

Catching first light with your camera is a rewarding experience. This was true for waiting in the dark at Yosemite Falls in the extreme cold. The next image was much easier to catch as I woke up to a beautiful snowy sunrise while at my son’s home. Both brought me exhilaration and awe. For me, both were spiritual in nature.

The sun also accents its own beauty no matter what time of day. You just have to catch it right. As photographers, we know not to miss an opportunity! I’m wondering if this eagle will get a tan on it’s face? I love when flowers are backlit by the sun, creating shadows as softness.

Last come sunsets. The crack in the light diminishes and our view of the world changes. Whether it’s a sunburst showing through an open barn or a beautiful soft glow on a lighthouse, we know another day has come to an end. We anxiously wait to see what tomorrow will be.

Thank you Ritva for this insightful and soul searching challenge. When you reply, please link to her challenge and use the Lens-Artists tag.

And thank you for all your responses to last week’s challenge on ICM. All of your ICMs were amazing and some are still coming in. I did pick up a few tips like shaking the camera. I hope you all enjoyed it.

Next week Egidio leads our challenge, so be sure to look for his post. Until then, stay safe and healthy.

37 thoughts on “Lens Artists Challenge #322: There’s a crack in everything”

  12. What a lovely positive post Anne! I enjoyed all your photos but especially the one of Yosemite in the winter because of our recent visit, and the backlit flower simply because I too always love that effect 🙂

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  14. Pingback: 📸 Imperfect, yet beautiful… – BEING AMAZED: Observations of a Female World Traveler

  18. Fantastic pictures and a beautiful, uplifting message, Anne! I love the approach to “counter the world’s tension” by focusing on beauty. Your pictures and message certainly provide hope, light and comfort in challenging times. I’m particularly touched by the eagle, but every single photo in itself is outstanding.

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