## Beyond the Wyoming Wind: One Woman’s Journey to Reframe Our Worldview
Sally Ann Shurmur’s photography isn’t just about capturing stunning landscapes; it’s about inviting us to see the world through a wider lens. In this exploration of her work featured in Cowboy State Daily, we delve into the powerful narratives woven through Shurmur’s Wyoming-based lens. From the rugged beauty of the high plains to the intimate details of everyday life, her images challenge us to reconsider our own perceptions of what’s possible, and to recognize the profound connections that bind us all.
The Middleborn Son’s Detention Adventure: A Lesson in Perspective
In a world where disciplinary actions often lead to feelings of shame and regret, one family found an unexpected silver lining in a common school punishment. Middleborn, the middle child, faced a unique situation with a sense of humor and a surprising positive outlook. This incident serves not only as a testament to the son’s character but also as a lesson in perspective and adaptability.
The Apple Incident
The incident began innocuously, with an apple. For Middleborn, the act of throwing apples was not just a moment of rebellion but an effort to address a perceived waste of food. The apples in question were, as described, “super OLD, super WRINKLY, really MUSHY,” and destined for the trash. Middleborn’s logic was simple: it was better to use the apples for a game of apple-throwing to determine who could make the largest splat rather than letting them go to waste. This act of youthful ingenuity led to a school detention, an event that typically induces dread in most students.
Lunch Detention as a Positive Experience
To most, lunch detention is a form of punishment designed to keep the offender away from the socializing and eating that comes with a regular lunch period. Middleborn, however, took a unique view of the experience, turning it into a positive one. Detention became a time to read, specifically the popular novel “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins. This allowed him to not only avoid the harsh weather outside but also indulge in leisure reading, a rare opportunity for many students. The experience was not just tolerated; it was enjoyed. The story teaches us that even in situations perceived as negative, there can be silver linings and opportunities to engage in enjoyable activities. This unique perspective highlights a broader lesson about finding the positivity in unexpected places and moments, and the importance of maintaining a flexible, positive outlook.
The Broader Implications: Lessons from the Collection and Detention
While the story of Middleborn’s detention and his unique perspective on lunch detention stands on its own, its broader implications extend beyond the anecdotal. The collection of Department 56 Christmas Village pieces and the traditions surrounding them also offer valuable lessons in family bonding, perspective, and the significance of maintaining traditions in an ever-changing world.
The Value of Tradition
The annual gift of Department 56 pieces is more than just a collection; it is a tradition that fosters family bonding and the creation of cherished memories. These pieces, each carefully selected and gifted by the family matriarch, serve as physical representations of love and care. The effort to maintain and display these items, despite logistical challenges, underscores the value placed on tradition within the family. This tradition not only brings joy during the holiday season but also acts as a tangible link to the past, connecting generations through shared experiences and memories.
Perspective and Growth
Both the collection and the incident involving Middleborn’s lunch detention offer lessons in perspective and growth. The collection teaches the family to appreciate the small moments and the effort behind each gift, fostering a sense of gratitude and appreciation. Similarly, Middleborn’s experience with detention teaches one to reframe negative experiences into opportunities for personal growth. These lessons highlight the importance of seeing the silver lining in challenging situations and finding value in traditions, even when they face challenges or changes. Both stories illustrate how experiences, whether positive or negative, shape character and contribute to personal development.
Practical Aspects: Managing a Collectible Legacy
Managing a collection as extensive as that of the Department 56 Snow Village presents a range of challenges, from display and storage to ensuring the longevity of the collection. The practical and logistical aspects of preserving and displaying such a collection must be carefully considered to maintain its beauty and significance.
Display and Storage Tips
Properly displaying and storing a Department 56 collection requires thoughtfulness and attention to detail. First, it is crucial to ensure that the display area is free from direct sunlight and temperature extremes to prevent damage to the delicate pieces. Using a dedicated storage solution, such as specially designed cases or boxes with snug-fitting foam inserts, can protect the pieces from dust and damage during the off-season. Additionally, regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth and careful handling will help maintain the collection’s quality over time.
Preserving the Memory
The preservation of the Department 56 collection goes beyond the physical care of the pieces; it also involves maintaining the memories and traditions they represent. Creating a photo album or digital gallery can help in preserving these memories, allowing for easy review and sharing with family members. Additionally, involving the next generation in the process of setting up and displaying the collection can ensure that the tradition is passed down and remains relevant. This intergenerational sharing not only preserves the physical items but also the spirit and memories associated with them.
The Future of the Collection: What Lies Ahead
The future of the Department 56 collection and the traditions it has created is a testament to the enduring power of family and memory. As the collection’s original donor, Mom, moves into assisted living, the future of the collection becomes a question of how to continue the tradition in a meaningful way.
Mom’s Legacy
Mom’s gift of the Department 56 collection is more than a series of Christmas gifts; it is a legacy that connects past, present, and future. The collection, with its intricate detail and sentimental value, represents the love and care Mom has shown over the years. The challenge now lies in ensuring that this legacy continues to be a part of the family’s celebrations, even as circumstances change. This involves finding ways to display and use the collection, possibly adapting to new locations or changing family dynamics, while keeping the spirit of the tradition alive. The collection’s future is not only about maintaining the physical pieces but also about keeping the tradition relevant and engaging for the younger generation.
Continuing the Tradition
Continuing the Department 56 tradition in a changing world requires adaptability and creativity. By incorporating the collection into new family gatherings and finding ways to engage the next generation, the tradition can remain vibrant and significant. This could include storytelling sessions with the collection, where each piece is shared with a narrative of how it was received and its significance. Additionally, involving family members in the setup and display of the collection annually can create new memories and ensure that the tradition is not just a relic but an evolving part of the family’s life.
Conclusion
Conclusion: The Shattering Illusion of a Narrow Window On Your World
At its core, Sally Ann Shurmur’s journey is a poignant reminder that our perspectives are often shaped by the limitations of our own windows. Shurmur’s remarkable story, as recounted in this article, serves as a powerful testament to the importance of challenging our assumptions and expanding our worldview. By sharing her experiences as a blind woman navigating the world, Shurmur sheds light on the countless barriers that can prevent us from truly seeing the world around us. She highlights the need for greater accessibility and inclusivity, not just for individuals with disabilities, but for everyone who seeks to break free from the constraints of a narrow, limited view.
The significance of Shurmur’s story extends far beyond her personal experiences, with far-reaching implications for our society as a whole. As we continue to grapple with issues of social inequality, marginalization, and exclusion, Shurmur’s tale serves as a powerful call to action. By recognizing the interconnectedness of our individual experiences and the importance of inclusive representation, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable world. As we move forward, it is crucial that we prioritize accessibility, empathy, and understanding, recognizing that the window on our world is not fixed, but rather a lens that can be refracted and expanded to reveal a far more vibrant and diverse reality.
As we close the curtain on Shurmur’s remarkable story, we are left with a haunting question: what if our windows were truly limitless? What if we could see the world through the eyes of others, unencumbered by the constraints of our own biases and assumptions? The answer, much like the world itself, remains shrouded in uncertainty. But one thing is certain: by embracing the complexity and diversity of human experience, we can shatter the illusion of a narrow window on our world and glimpse a brighter, more radiant reality – one that is full of possibility, promise, and endless wonder.