Place Making
Marina Maldonado
In this photo, there is an absence of materialistic symbols to emphasize the importance of the innate human desire to be connected through personal relationships and the intrinsic nature of an ocean environment. Without the interference of superficial barriers that society has embedded in modern culture, a group of young friends create a world of their own where they can freely connect with each other. As a result of simply wanting to strengthen relationships, the creation of the flag represents the establishment of place-making where the desire to connect with those we care about is placed above the desire to compete for acceptance by living an inauthentic life and suppressing our identities. In this new space, a culture of empathy and respect is created.
My friends and I created a fort by the ocean together after years of not being in close contact. Team building rekindles the bond between people inside and outside of the photo. Playing and imagining like we did when we were younger was not weak or immature; rather, our willingness to do so showed our determination to overcome personal insecurity. We were not afraid to be honest and true to our simple desire to connect with each other, and this act of vulnerability allowed us to connect on a level that created the strongest bonds of respect and trust that are vital to the cooperation of people in society.
The natural fear of being vulnerable through the expression of individuality can make individuals feel very isolated, so outdoor team-based activities can help shatter social barriers of insecurity. It is up to individuals to be assertive in the closing of distance between family and friends.
Time is an important luxury, and spending time with one’s community is crucial to creating a resilient community where all individuals are supported. In order to stay in touch with ourselves and our surroundings, we must get offline and be more present by appreciating our environment in nature and our place in our communities.
After understanding the message of this photograph, it is crucial to carry out its purpose of increasing the awareness of the necessity for more social interaction by straying away from our dependence on technology. Cities may be inspired to establish more areas for public enjoyment that are free of cost and inclusive for all. Universally, our society can encourage the appreciation and education of our natural environment to connect community members to the beauty of their local area. It is also important to implement awareness for the power of perspective in universal challenges of stress by embracing life with lightheartedness, compassion, and empathy. We should never forget to continue the search for meaningful moments throughout our lives because if we stop, those moments will pass by.