At The Broken Places

“The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places.”

— Ernest Hemingway

Two and a half years ago, I made my first trip to Havana, Cuba and on returning, was rendered speechless. The truth of Hemingway's quote was ringing in my ears - these were people who were incredibly strong at the broken places.

Well, a couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege of returning. In the last few years, I've traveled extensively for my clients, working on every continent with the exception of Antarctica, and yet, I've never had the opportunity to return to a place I've been before. So, in many ways, this trip was incredibly unique. And in every way, I couldn't wait to return and bathe in the beauty of their strength.

For the sake of the people with whom I worked, some of whom I count among my dearest of friends, I'm not at liberty to say much in a public forum, however, I believe that you can catch a glimpse of the Truth present in their stories in these images. I hope they speak for themselves.

"Vivan los C.D.R.", Havana, Cuba, Jan. 2013

Both of these women are the epitome of 'strength at the broken places'.

The sunrises over Iglesia de Jesus de Miramar, Havana, Cuba, 2013

If you have an interest in Cuba, you might find some of the work I've published from there of intriguing:

• You can find my story, Hope Amidst the Ruins, in my 2010 Photo Annual here.

• And here is a link to a personal photo essay I shot during my previous trip: Havana Vieja: At Night.