This photograph was made by Beto, a young boy about the age of 11. Beto is a fantastic photographer and has a very creative eye. When you give him a camera, he always has a huge smile on his face, and he really gets an attitude boost when he hears how much you like his photographs.

However, the difficult truth is that, like other kids at New Hope, this is not Beto’s permanent home. Beto was only here until his mother was able to get things sorted out. It was only a matter of time before one of my photography students moved back with their family; I just never knew when it would happen. Goodbyes rarely happen when someone leaves; one day they’re here, and the next they are gone. Most of the time you find out that someone has left by hearing it through the grape vine.

I only wish I could have said a few words to Beto before he left, perhaps a goodbye or maybe some encouraging words about how much talent he has. Maybe Beto and I will have the chance to cross paths again in the future. I know that the photographs Beto was able to create while he was here will have a lasting effect in his life, and knowing that gives me some joy.