Portofolio for Jared Edward Harden

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to share a deeply personal and profound topic: the denial of grief and the pursuit of hobbies as a means of healing. In life, we all face moments of tragedy, heartache, and loss. It is during these times that we must come to terms with our emotions, confront our grief, and find solace in the things that bring us joy.

Denying grief is a defense mechanism that many of us employ. We try to bury our pain, hoping that it will fade away, only to find it resurfacing stronger than ever. However, denying grief can prevent us from truly healing and moving forward in life. As Ernest Hemingway once said, “The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places.” It is through acknowledging and embracing our grief that we find the strength to rise above it.

One of the most powerful ways to heal is by pursuing our passions and hobbies. Music, in particular, has an incredible ability to touch our souls. As Friedrich Nietzsche eloquently stated, “Without music, life would be a mistake.” When we immerse ourselves in music, we find an escape from sorrow and a means to express our deepest emotions. It allows us to release our pain and find solace in the harmony of melodies and the rhythm of life.

However, there are times when others may not understand or appreciate our passions. They may view us with jealousy and even act out of spite. The camera that has been placed in your hand, telling you to shoot and create photographs, may symbolize the negativity or skepticism that can surround our pursuits. In these moments, it is essential to stay true to ourselves and our calling, as Vincent Van Gogh famously said, “If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ then, by all means, paint, and that voice will be silenced.”

Photography, like music, holds the power to capture moments and emotions. Through your lens, you have the opportunity to showcase the world through your unique perspective. Do not let the jealous and hateful attitudes of others deter you from embracing this art form. Instead, let their negativity fuel your determination and passion.

Remember, the pursuit of happiness and healing is a personal journey. Embrace your grief, for it is part of your story. Embrace your music and photography, for they are the creative outlets that breathe life into your soul. In the words of Maya Angelou, “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.”

So, my friends, let your grief be the fuel that ignites your artistry. Embrace your passions, express your pain through your music, and create photographs that speak volumes. Your journey towards healing and happiness will not be without obstacles, but through perseverance, you will emerge stronger and more alive than ever before.

Thank you.