Once Unharmed
At first glance, this photo appears to capture the former resting spot of a meteor in the heart of southern Wisconsin. Tree branches can be seen collapse inwards, as they rest on the walkway that has been turned to a state of rubble. The grey haze that the sunday sky lures over the town sparks a feeling of shock, as the jaws of passerbyers can be imagined landing with a thud on the cold, wet sidewalk. But as your eyes gaze closer into the photo, it can easily be reminded of the true original state of this sinkhole like structure. Your mind suddenly takes a sprint back to the month of July, you now can be reminded of brisk walks through that once flatly-paved walkway. It is here where the tree branches intertwined over your head, forming a trail of shade to sooth that hot summer afternoon. A roaring stream flows along your path, flabbergasted by the rain showers of yesterday evening. The chirping of birds and the humming of bees join the river in a serenade that only mother nature can share. A light gust of wind flows around your body, wiping the sweat that casually flows down your face. Then you feel a drop of sweat roll down your cheek. Suddenly your emotions feel as if they have come crashing back into the present. That was no drop of sweat, that was a tear. A tear reminding you of the desomated state of what was once the prized image of your quaint wisconsin town. What was once practically untouched by modern day technology is now in the hands of construction men, examining the utter devastation. And what was once the path of your summer afternoon strolls is now guarded by yellow tape stretching across a crumpled line of pavement. Your chest slowly caves into your heart, as you turn your head away from the image of desolation that has captivated the local community. Citizens can be seen peering into the heart-tearing tragedy when you glance back into the photo one last time, only to suffer the same emotional experience that you have felt.