Everyone’s life experiences that they encounter are different and this is what shapes their identity. People can either be fortunate or less fortunate depending on the environmental factors that an individual is living in. The concept of poverty and survival is something that is often ignored in very advanced societies. Individuals who live in a country with very little resources have to go through a process of trial and error in order to survive.

The photograph exhibited is a picture of young elementary school children crossing a river in the Philippines in order to get to school. The focal point of this visual is the three kids who are struggling to attain balance on the raft. This further signifies how they are working together in order to overcome this risky challenge of crossing a deep river. The photographer has blurred the background for a more closeup effect in order to make the subject of the photo stand out. They are isolated and can only depend on each other for survival. The attire of the children is very washed out. The clothing of the material is very thin and will not keep the children warm or dry when the weather changes. The kid’s faces symbolize a sense of innocence. They seem to be very happy even though their current state can be very fearful. It could be a very scary experience if one of the children lose their balance and fall into the river. This could put the children’s lives at risk as there would be no help around. 

People in other countries like Canada do not realize how lucky they are to live in a country with an abundance of resources. We tend to complain about the things we don’t have whereas, on the flip side, there are people living in a state where they have to use what little things that they have in order to survive. Sometimes we tend to hate going to school or work after a long weekend. From waking up early to taking a bus or car in order to get to our destination. In other countries, there are not many facilities available and getting to school could be a journey that would take hours. It would normally consist of a routine with very many hurdles that people have to cross. These innocent children have to face all of these battles alone without support from a parent. When high school students have to decide about decisions such as applying for post-secondary, scholarships, or student loans, we tend to ignore the fact that we should be thankful that we have very experienced counselors and parents who we turn to for help when making these decisions that shape our future. Children in third world countries, like the Philippines, can sometimes be orphans and have to learn all sorts of life skills on their own. The fear of being able to survive every day is something that Canadians do not normally worry about every morning. In countries facing poverty, there can be many unexpected dangers that can be encountered in which individuals need to be prepared for. Natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis can occur at any time in these countries. This can wipe out a whole family and destroy the future of children who yet have so many years ahead of them to live.

Individuals brought up in very industrialized countries tend to take so many things for granted. We have access to basic needs such as clean water and shelter, but we never appreciate it. Sometimes we waste these resources by leaving the water tap or room light on when it is not in use. This is something that I can admit to. I sometimes think more about the things that I want and do not have. Individuals tend to be so self-focused that they often forget what is going on around them. People can be very selfish and worry about themselves when it comes to achievement. Children tend to wonder about how their future would look like when it comes to what they want to become, but those who are attempting to survive in a world of loss may not even be able to achieve their dreams. It is so heartbreaking to see a world torn apart solely due to the fact that they are unable to escape this cycle of poverty. It is vital for fortunate individuals to show a sense of sympathy. 

We are very lucky to have a government that has contributed to humanitarian causes and provided foreign aid to third world countries. Canadian citizens should take some time out of their day to remember those who are struggling and homeless. Donating a little bit of money to foundations such as The World Partnership Walk can make such an impact on a family living on very little. This can provide them with access to clean water, food, education, and proper transportation. Donating for a good cause is an act of kindness that can bring a sense of personal satisfaction to one’s soul.