A perfect moment

I collect antique and vintage photographs... both the formal 'cabinet cards' and informal snapshots.

As I was going through them the other day in the hope of thinning the herd, I realized that one of the things I love about them is how perfectly they capture the fleeting beauty of a person or a moment.

There's no other information you get... just that moment.

You don't know if she went on to live a long life as a beloved matriarch of a large wealthy family... or if she died the next month from small pox.

Speculation about them can consume hours...

Did any of them become successful or where they 'hussies' working as showgirls just long enough to snag a rich husband?

Halloween? or Witness Protection?

For all her looking, in obvious and obscure places, did she ever find one?

Did she know how 'cool' she looks?

Did she really wish it was an different finger?

Did she ever get a better vacation?

 Friends, whatever you're doing this weekend, 

gathering with friends and family 

or spending moments in solitude... 

may you find, and appreciate, those fleeting moments of beauty.

They truly are all we have.