Finding Beauty Beyond the Lens of Digital Photography

Do you like capturing meaningful moments with digital photography? If so, are you one of those people who overshares? In a world obsessed with taking selfies, it might be refreshing to pause to simply enjoy beauty for its own sake. Peace and wisdom can be discovered simply by relaxing and observing the life cycles and nature surrounding you. At times, it can also serve as a way to share something meaningful and inspiring with someone seeking peace, wisdom, or understanding. Today, I am sharing one of my recent enjoyable moments from a project, "Joy of Digital Photography."

Image from a Joy of Digital Photography project

During my visit to Sali, a town on one of Croatia's islands, I was instantly drawn to this coastal succulent. I was captivated by its sword-shaped leaves and torch-like red flowers. I could picture myself as a child using the leaves as a "sword" and engaging in fencing matches with my brothers. 

Aloe arborescens may not be the most attractive plant, but gardeners value it highly. The name aloe is derived from the Greek word "alsos," referring to the bitter juice from its leaves, known for its healing properties. That brings to mind how, as children, we often found comfort and healing through playing games.

In Southern Africa, Aloe arborescens is customarily grown around livestock enclosures as a living fence or security hedge, whereas on the Croatian coast, it is frequently used as an ornamental shrub.

Do you have any thoughts on Aloe arborescens and this digital photograph? It’s okay if you’re not a fan of this succulent. It requires an acquired taste.

Do you have a digital photo on your phone you can share with someone today that would spark imagination or bring some comfort? Feel free to share it with me as well!