Gracias, Steven!

​When looking back at the trip I find myself being grateful for all the people I met and the smiles they brought to my face.  Throughout the trip, I was fortunate enough to meet people who made me see the world in a brighter light.  In this photo is Steven, a young boy from the area who came with his friends and little sister during our last day in El Manzano Uno. Steven was curious, playful, and full of energy.  He was drawing magnificent pictures of whatever he saw around.  When I got close to him, I could tell he was curious about my camera.  He ended up taking my friend’s camera and would keep snapping till the camera ran out of battery.  He reminded me as a kid being curious about the world and wanting to capture all that I could.  When I reflect on the trip, I think of kids like Steven that I met, young a full of life.  Kids who might not have much in material goods, but have everything in terms of friends and family.  They showed me that sometimes the simplest of moments can be the best of moments.  This photo reminds me to appreciate every moment of everyday.  To my friend Steven, I say thank you!

​~ Stefan Puente