I took this picture of this man sleeping on the streets of Bangkok. Though he was probably destitude, his expression seemed peaceful with almost a half-smile.

I actually decided to submit this in response to two peoples' comments about a previous pieces I submitted yesterday The Children of Reality
[link] The first unnamed person said...it is not very pretty to look at. Is that what photography's always supposed to be? I think it is pretty easy to take a picture of a beautiful woman or a flower and not fuck it up...what does that do for society anyway? Is art always supposed to make you feel good all the time? Don't get me wrong, I love to take pictures of the beauty that exists aroung us, but I also like to make people think. Maybe if only for a moment, but to take one moment out of their life to think about how lucky they really are.
Some other jackass said that these people become like this because of their will. Obviously this person knows nothing about history, economics or humanity, if I may be so bold. That type of ignorance is absolutely inexcusable. I am disgusted by that fact that people like that even have the right to exist with such freedom. Obviously that person has never wanted for ANYTHING in their life, let alone a meal...or shelter...or human rights.

Anyway, sorry about the commentary. I know people will not even look at this photo anyway, as it is not "pretty enough". Sadly, I rarely submit photojournalistic pieces to DA because I know if there is a tit shot anywhere near the piece, it won't even get a second glance. And the people who do look, well I am sure I am preaching to the choir anyway.
I really needed to respond to those comments in some way though. Hopefully one day, I will influence just one person enough for them to pick themself up, out of their ignorance, and change the world in the smalllest way. That is all I ask of my art.