I am a people watcher.
When I wait in an airport I love to watch people and think about what might be their story.
Now I don’t have to wonder.
Renowned French photographer Yann Anthus-Bertrand has produced a film titled: 6 Billion Others. In the past, he has given us a unique view of the world with his inspiring aerial photography of the earth. Now he focuses his lens on the people of the earth sharing their testimonies of the meaning of life, death, hopes and fears.
The premise of the project I totally buy into: “Every single person has got something interesting to say. And every person has the right to say it, even if they don’t know it.”
People matter.
And listening matters.
Bertrand says, “Nowadays the only way we can go forward is to move towards our fellowmen. Understand them.”
I think this is true.
Last week I attended a program, hosted by the Missouri History Museum that highlighted the leaders of black institutions in the St. Louis area. Their organizations support families and culture and impact our economy in important and needful ways. More importantly, these founders shared stories of triumph in adversity and perseverance in strengthening families and preserving heritage. This is a positive African American story not often highlighted in the media.
I was sad that most of the audience was African American already familiar with the organizations and their stories --- they were preaching to the choir.
What they do is valuable. They have an important story to share. And they have the right to share it. Yet in our racially divided city of St. Louis, listening to each others’ stories can meet with resistance.
I found myself wishing more white folks could hear their stories. Some people accuse the African American community as turning their backs on their own. And some others just simply don’t know the story. If we listen, we will learn the truth.
Can you listen this week to someone’s story -- someone who is different from you?
You don’t have to travel the globe. Start with 6 Billion Others.
Then your neighbor.
P.S. Thanks to Mike Magleby for bringing this website to my attention
Comments