Presidents and Founders: Dr. Urooj Waheed, and Sobia Ali
This would be our 2nd year covering Zaina Foundations annual Gala. This time, the at the Delta Hotels by Marriott in Allen, Texas. Once again, this was an evening filled with families of diverse cultures from all walks of life - as it were - who seemed to be already in community with each other through the foundation and perhaps beyond.
Families during red carpet session.
I believe that part of life’s purpose - and this applies corporately as well as individually - is to constantly strive to rein in humanity from the brink of hopelessness and despair. Reaching out a helping hand to those in need is a great way to do so; beyond an introspective work and personal paradigm orienting.
It was quite obvious observing and hearing the stories shared at this event, that the President and Founders; Dr. Waheed, and Ali had an awakening of sorts, through the adoption of their child. A revelation through a relationship that sparked worldview change, that gave fuel to seek out solutions.
Genuine smiles, laughter, and hugs were not in short supply; and was such a pleasure to observe. Watching humanity at it’s best is one way to describe this event. From the red carpet, where enthusiastic kids and families constantly requested their photos be taken with other families; to socializing in the halls, with the men in their tailored suits, and occasional traditional wear. Where the women practically stole the show with long and brilliantly colored gowns. Color is a photographers dream, and there certainly was enough of that to go around. Chatter filled the halls like the washing of water; waiters pacing around the constantly shifting crowd of patrons, with trays of appetizers. You could spot them as they seem to be the only ones in neutral black and white clothes.
Dinner!! I can’t remember how many courses of food was served, but they sure looked good. It seemed like a mix of Western and Asian food. Of course, I wasn’t surprised at the occasional spotting of the use of hands for eating. My African roots kill the wonder of this activity. Besides, food tastes better when you use your hands… taste buds don’t lie!
Poetry, raffle drawing, the occasional jokes, and laughter. And then the heart of the matter began. Great speeches and an introduction of the President, by his daughter - Zaina - whom the foundation is named after. And then, the live Skype call to the orphanage in India. This is where I’ve struggled both times in attendance, to keep it together. There just isn’t anything like seeing the gratitude-filled faces of young children who have been rescued from dire circumstances; along with their caretakers, whose every other word seemed to be, thank you.
In the end, what truly matters is our impact on the lives around us. Great relationships matter, not for the benefits we gain from them, but for the love we generate and bestow. It certainly is better to give than to receive.
Honestly, if I could cover events that had a direct and meaningful impact in lives like this for the rest of my life, I’d be satisfied.
Being a photographer isn’t just about the click of the shutter and a momentary fascination about an image. Telling stories about moments in time is what it truly is about.
How much greater is it to tell real, and great stories that truly matter.
Stories about humanity’s persistence in the face of dire odds. Perseverance through calamity and unrelenting flame against chaos. Every once in a while, we’re presented with a glimmer of hope that reveals a remnant fighting against the tide of nihilism and hopelessness.
May we all learn to see beyond ourselves, past selfish and trivial pursuit into what truly matters; Love!
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails!