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Paul Walters | all galleries >> Galleries >> Pictures of Me > 09-23-2003
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23-SEP-2003

09-23-2003

Today marks my 24th year anniversary of my last motorcycle race. I was racing a team race with my brother in California City on his Yamaha YZ 250 when I crashed, breaking my back, and ending my life of racing motorcycles. I took this picture on the way to work while sitting in my van at a stoplight in an over crowded left turn lane. I saw this flower, fallen from a tree, and laying on the grown to die, and just thought it looked like it needed to be preserved forever by my camera.

FujiFilm FinePix S2 Pro
1/1500s f/9.5 at 105.0mm iso800 full exif

other sizes: small original auto
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Eve 30-Sep-2003 17:48
Paul, You are a wonderful person and I knew you before that day and after and I feel that I am so lucky to be one of those people in your life. I sure hope that people realize how wonderful you really are, I am sure they are figuring that out by viewing your beautiful and fantastic pictures. Take care, I love you.....
Guest 24-Sep-2003 13:18
Paul, nice choice of shot for this day. I broke my neck 16 years ago and I know how quickly these aniversaries seem to come around (mine was a month ago). But, as ever, onwards and upwards! Your photography is fantastic; I just signed up with Pbase today and am intrigued with the Photo A Day series. Am tempted to jump on the bandwagon but not sure if I'd see it through for 365 days...
Paul Walters24-Sep-2003 06:31
Thank you all for your kind words! As much as today is somewhat of a melancholy day, I've got to admit that I wouldn't give up a day of my life before or after my injury. I've been lucky enough to be very fortunate with the things that matter. :)
Guest 24-Sep-2003 01:35
You're an incredible inspiration, Paul - far beyond your remarkable photography. We're all your debtors. Thank you... immeasurably.
Faye White23-Sep-2003 23:26
I'm glad that you noticed this bloom and captured it beautifully, for all of us.
Guest 23-Sep-2003 21:58
Pablo! Unlike the flower that fell of the tree to die... you fell off your motorcycle only to grow new branches and leaves with brighter colors! I congratulate you on your gracefulness through it all! Happy Anniversary! I love you (your sister... no, not the yellow polka dot fish, ME!)Carol
Chris Brooker23-Sep-2003 20:22
Here, Here.
Guest 23-Sep-2003 20:01
Very poignant Paul. While I am grieved to learn of the tragedy you suffered, I'm especially grateful that you lived and are able to share your photographic gifts with us. May you continue to inspire us.