A fusion of sunlight and mist forms a rainbow at the base of Multnomah Falls in Corbett, Oregon.

 I’d like to end the year with a message of hope by sharing this inspiring story.

There once was a shy little boy, who watched me as I composed images of  Oregon’s famed Multnomah Falls. I was in my element—doing what I love—when I noticed his quiet, intense fascination. He looked to be about five years old. His curious eyes followed my every move, as the water crashed down before us.

He was silent, but it was clear to me that he wanted to make a connection. So I asked him—and the woman with him—if he wanted to see what I was photographing. He said, “Yes,” and stepped closer. I lifted him up and perched him on my forearm so he could peek through the camera high on the tripod. We had a nice little conversation as I taught him how to use the shutter release. And he pressed it to take several frames.

When we finished, the woman called me over. That’s when I learned she wasn’t his mother.

“Thank you for doing that,” she said warmly. “I’m his aunt. A week ago, his parents were killed in a car accident. You’re the first person he’s spoken to since.”

I wasn’t trying to change the world, just doing what I loved and being my gregarious self. But it was enough to change his world.

I wish you a new year filled with passion, possibility, and wonder! And let your passion be your gift to others.

—Mike