Throughout my journey into the world of photography, I’ve discovered that one of my favorite things about it is the fact that it allows me to play a role in someone’s life that I wouldn’t necessarily have the opportunity to otherwise. I have the honor of sharing both laughter and tears, experiencing vulnerability and celebrating successes with those whose images I am able to capture through my lens. A couple of weeks ago, I was blessed to be able to catalog a part of someone’s story on (digital) film.
Selma’s Story is a Franklin, Tenn.-based non-profit organizations that connects donors with stories of individuals who have a life-changing need. Many times, through no fault of their own, people are often faced with a need, one that if fulfilled, can dramatically alter the course of their lives. Think medical needs for a child living in an orphanage overseas or covering education fees for a single mom struggling to pay the bills. Selma’s Story comes along existing organizations and make it possible for people who want to make a difference in someone’s life choose the story that touches them, thereby actually becoming a part of that story.
So, who is Selma and how did it all start?
Selma and her mother, Lynn, were living just outside of a dump in Tijuana, Mexico. Over a period of several months, dozens of people came together to bring this mother and daughter back to the United States and help them to get back on their feet and to begin again. It doesn’t matter in what capacity each person participated – what matters is the fact that they each did what they were called to do. Some gave money or clothes, some held a hand or gave a hug, some prayed…the list goes on and on. And because of a group of people’s willingness to step out and do something, Lynn and Selma’s lives are changed forever.
Today, Selma is a beautiful little girl full of personality and life, charming everyone who crosses her path.
Lynn has become a strong woman, growing in confidence in her role as a mother and as the beauty God created her to be.
Time will tell what the next chapter of their lives will hold, but I’m just so blessed I got to be a part of this one.
