Rise above the storm

A flock of Rainbow Lorikeets fly high above the stormy clouds, a symbol of hope and freedom. They have a way of inspiring us to dream, instantly raising spirits. Dark skies give us a sense of uncertainty and anticipation, but where would be be without the influence of both? Equally important and spectacular to maintain balance!

2020 was a year full of challenges, bushfires, drought and the most lingering of all, the Covid - 19 pandemic. With it came illness, death, loss of freedom, separation, isolation, financial pressure, anxiety, and heartache. The list goes on and on!

One of the positives to come out of border closures and home isolation, was the opportunity to expand knowledge. For me, improving my photography skills was hot on my radar.

Late in the year I created the image above, for an assignment on my favourite colour blue. It features a magnificent blue sky with fluffy light filled clouds surmounting dark, stormy clouds. There is a small flock of Rainbow Lorikeets flying across the scene. I was extremely happy to capture the birds when they so obligingly came into frame!

The use of incandescent white balance intensified the blue tones to full effect. On a personal note, I find blue extremely soothing and uplifting. It gets a bad rap for being labelled the colour of sadness.

The more I studied the image, the more I discovered it on a symbolic and metaphorical level. The Rainbow Lorikeets are moving fast across the sky in unison, free to go wherever, and whenever they please. A symbol of freedom, and hope.

The dark, stormy clouds are prominent in the lower part of the frame. They look diabolical and powerful. What will they unleash to all in its path? Like the unknown power and might of a virus that we have never known before.

The late afternoon light is dancing off the fluffy white clouds, highlighting a suggestion of hope, and for some, spirituality.

The human spirit is a wonderful thing, it enables us to endure, battle on and never give up. But more importantly, it has brought out the best in most people in our community, during these crazy times.

When we all pull together, remain strong, compassionate, and resilient. We can rise above the storm. This is what the people of Victoria, Australia (As the worst affected State) have achieved, and I am proud to be one of them. Praying for a safe vaccine that will put an end to the suffering and loss of lives, worldwide. Until then, let's rise above!