Captures of a Return

5 min read

37 years spent wandering, longing, and yearning. My father, who fought so passionately for his land, was forced to leave for the same reason, and to stay at an unbearable distance for 37 years. Lost all those who meant the most to him. When he decided it was finally time to make that return, nerves and excitement took over all at once. Disbelief that in less than a month he would walk on the soil, and climb the mountains of the land that he so cherished.

It was a breathtaking and unforgettable experience. Seeing all the incredible sights and excavations. Knowing that despite the oppressive red flag waving atop every treasured city, it was ours. Experiencing the incomparable reunion between brothers. To love and laugh with the children that are the true fruit of our land, and to experience the warmth of our people. All you could feel was peace and serenity, looking down at the top of those mountains. I hope that these captures give a brief glimpse of what I saw, and the beauty of our home and people.

Photos by: Shilan Keskin