I was scrolling through my photos and found this somewhat magical shot. It was taken in Comuna 13, once the most dangerous Medellin's neighborhood. It is not a secret that locals used to be afraid to go out in the streets because they knew that a bullet can put them down any second. And sometimes, when I hear people complaining about not feeling free enough (whatever that means), I remember Comuna 13 and every single person who had to suffer the poverty and danger of getting killed.
What impresses me the most is the fact that locals found a way to fight their path to the freedom; they slowly, with some help from the government, wiped out most of the gangs out of the Comuna 13. Today, it is one of the most touristic places in Medellin and it represents hope. It reminds me that people cannot be suppressed forever. People are strong and they are prepared to fight with rocks against tanks. What fascinates me the most, sometimes, all we need in order to win is having some faith and pure desire.
This couple with a cat wouldn't seem any different that any other elders if not for the fact that they know what it feels to struggle. They know what it feels not to be able to enter the balcony and look at the street. They know what it feels to live in constant fear. That is why I was so impressed by their calm looks, which emitted happiness and peace.
After people in Comuna 13 received their safety again, they didn't take it for granted; they started appreciating every single moment spent outside. And it felt while walking in those streets. What was once the most dangerous place in the world, now is... still the poorest neighborhood. That said, people there are appreciative. They know that we only need freedom to feel excited about life.
Also - the cat is the real MVP. I mean, animals always look the best in photos.