Phtographs that move you.

Recently while cruising through the internet I came upon a list of some of the most moving photos ever taken. These aren't necessarily the best photos ever taken, but photos that would take your breath away. As I scrolled through the images one particular image caught my attention. It shows a malnourished boy crawling on the ground. At first it caught my eye but I didn't really spend too much time on it. I'd seen photos like that before and even though they're hard to look at it, it's just a sad fact about the world we live in.

This image, captured during the Sudanese famine of 1993, is both alienating and compelling. The helplessness and hopelessness of the child contrasts with the predatory patience of the vulture. The shot epitomized the cruelty of the famine and brought the harrowing issue into sharp focus across the world. The photographer who captured it took his own life shortly after this photograph was awarded a Pulitzer Prize.

A few days later I realized that I hadn't been able to get that image out of my mind so I decided to do some research. As it turns out, the man walking away in the shot, had just stole the food from the boy. Suddenly a huge pain overcame me when I realized just how horrible that whole situation must have been. I spent the next few hours researching the photo and reading other people reactions to the shot. (See the shot below)

This photograph was taken by Tom Stoddart, in 1998, at the village of Ajiep, in the Bar el Ghazal region, Sudan.

Some people say that the boy would not have survived with the food and that it's just "survival of the fittest." But I can't help but wonder if maybe the boy had more family or even if just one more meal would have helped him die slightly happier.

I had such a huge mix of emotions. I felt bad for the kid, wanted to kick the guys ass, but more importantly it made me realize how lucky I am and that I shouldn't take things for granted. When I think about the petty first world problems we have compared to this it makes me sick to my stomach! But somehow I feel like this image has changed me, maybe for the better.

I found an article on a blog which says a lot about these types of photos and gives great explanation. Take the time to read through that as well. It's very well written and it tells you more about the photo.
MAN STEALS MAIZE FROM STARVING BOY

Below you'll also find a few links to websites to help feed the starving children of earth.

Child Fund
Child Hunger Ends Here
Save the Children
Feed the Children