Significant portions of my photography have shifted to what I consider to be portraits of the forest floor. Although the images may not be as spectacular as a grand landscape, they aid in my contemplation. When I am out with Aspen and have the intention of photographing unique subjects, I find myself walking quite slowly. I am scanning and watching the forest, searching for the overlooked foliage or flowers in the spotlight. Throughout this time, my mind drifts to meaning and other existential questions.

Unanswered queries are often daunting, but they remind me to continue working toward purpose and intentional living. Finding satisfactory answers may be a lifelong pursuit, and there is joy in that process. Unknowing is not wrong. A humble admittance of this would likely benefit considerable populations in our society. We are encouraged to trust those who 'know,' but those who make truth claims take substantial risks. Risks that I think are often necessary but should be infrequent. I am concerned that those who perpetuate truth claims no longer ask sincere questions and start with answers. Once educated on a topic, questioning what one knows may feel foolish or unprofessional. I want to encourage us to consider continuously asking questions and, in matters of certainty, pause so we can further inquire about the ramifications of such assertions.