A Show of Strength
Nov 6 – describe the possible story behind a favorite family photo
A Show of Strength
Choosing a favorite photo would be like choosing a favorite child, almost impossible. This photo was among a number of family photos I recently acquired. It makes me smile, because it depicts such a common family event. Three of the four boys are cousins; I am not sure how Sluggo, the one in a shirt, fits in with the group. While the photo I have is small, less than two square inches, when enlarged, you can see that Tommy, the boy in the back, is enjoying what looks like a large piece of watermelon. Billy, on the left, and Donald in the middle, are eager to show off. In the background, Grandma is sitting at a table and a couple women (I believe maybe their moms) are distracted by something behind the boys. It makes one think that perhaps these shows of bravado were common, as the women pay the boys no attention whatsoever.
Before this photo was taken, the family was enjoying a picnic, likely at a local lake, where most of the family went wading or swimming in the water. Whether Tommy and Billy had more recently gotten out of the water or just disliked wearing shoes is something that only they can tell us. What is apparent is that this is a family accustomed to spending time together. I would say is it just as likely as not that following this photo, the boys got into a scuffle over who has the bigger muscles and a wrestling match may have ensued. That of course would have gotten the attention of those moms who only moments before were paying them no mind at all.