More Than a Stunning Photograph - Thank You Kevin Dooley

Wonderful Botswana: Elephants dig for fresh water

Intro by Skip Cohen

This post only needs the shortest introduction because Kevin Dooley has shared his thoughts on a topic everyone can identify with. Sadly, it can be challenging for some of us to live by. So trust me, and read his guest post below, which he recently shared on Facebook.

In terms of knowing Kevin - he needs to be on your radar! Kevin and Tricia Dooley own IDUBE Photo Safaris. Click on Kevin's image above to visit their website. Based out of New Mexico, if you've met them, you easily understand why they're considered one of the premier companies in photo adventure safaris.  

Kevin and I have been saying hi to each other for many years at various conventions but never found the time to talk. But at IUSA, I was able to meet both Kevin and Tricia, and while our time together was short, they epitomized the definition of passion for the craft, combined with the building blocks for a great friendship.

Spending time with them is one more reason why everyone needs to get out more! The recent IUSA convention was one of their best. Great programming, lots of new faces, passionate vendors, and excitement in the air. Lots of time to network and catch up with old friends while meeting new ones! Next year's show is January 28-30 in Louisville, KY. Here's the link - YOU NEED TO BE THERE!

A big thanks to Kevin for letting me share his post beyond his FB page.

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by Kevin Dooley

​One of the things I talk of in my programs is the value of forgiveness. The opportunity of second chances and hard earned lessons. I touched on this thought this last week as I spoke in Nashville. I find it to be a very important part of maintaining creativity. A mind free of sadness and negative thoughts is a mind that has space and time to be creative. To find happiness.

I suppose I don't know a single soul that has not made the occasional mistake. In fact I would say some of the best people in the world are those who have learned a lesson or two. Of course some lessons come the hard way. Imagine being so perfect that you never make a single mistake, you never have the need to learn to be a better person.

What if there were no second chances given in life? What if you took everyone else's opinion of another person and never had the opportunity to develop your own? I have no doubt that some of the best friendships come from forgiveness and the ability to give out second chances. Or better yet to have the opportunity to make your own opinions without the help of gossip, jealousy, or a difference of opinions.

Gossip and misunderstood opinions are simply killers of great opportunities to learn and spend time with some of the most talented and wonderful people in the world. May I never fall prey to the inabilities of forgiveness, the cold hearts of no second chances, or overlooking my own ability to discover another. I can only think of the many many great people and friendships I may not of had.

Please may my heart be loving, kind, and giving. May I have the guts to find my own opinions. May I be brave and clever enough to stick up for the underdog when the gossip gets thick and muddy. For I know that so many amazing people are just a moment away from being great friends.