Narrative and photography by Elizabeth Coleman
A man walks along my windowsill every morning. His footsteps are slow and uneven, frequently stopping and turning backward but never retracing.
From my vantage point in the shaded corner of unfamiliar walls, I can’t see the path his feet make. I merely see him strolling, hands often clasped behind his back. One morning, I grew curious and slowly drifted away from the shaded corner toward the light trickling in through my window. The man grew larger and his feet became clear followed by four paws, worn with age, slowly tracing the man’s footsteps.
Every morning, I watch the man cross my windowsill with his tiny companion. Every morning I recognize the love and the patience shared between the man and his companion. Every morning I better understand the importance of this ritual because one day, maybe someday soon, this man will cross my windowsill alone.
Isn’t it inspiring?
A dream set in hazy air
Simple moments treated so precious, so delicate
Like a flower, tenderly cared after,
watered religiously,
allowed to flourish so
they burst into the streets.
During my brief time in Arles, I have witnessed the beauty in the attention Arlesiens place on wellbeing. Reflected in the colorful facades and floral streets, the quiet evenings, and whispered laughter, the Arlesien quality of life is rich beyond material possessions.
A thriving existence developed by dedicated stewardship of personal and communal habits and space, a relationship that is often disjointed in American society. Arlesiens take the time to feel human by protecting their moments and places of peace creating a welcoming and comforting environment for locals and visitors alike.
Maybe my experience as a temporary inhabitant allows me to have this fanciful view of Arles and its people, or maybe there is something truly special in the way life is nurtured here.
As Americans, we have forgotten the art of resting, of healing through land and community, of experiencing a life that we cultivate and allow to flourish. Rather than merely surviving, we might find inspiration in the care shown for humanity here in Arles, a care that may allow us to thrive. To live among the flowers, in homes dedicated to rest, among communities that fill our cups, and with the time to stroll along winding paths at first light or beneath the stars accompanied by a loved one for as long as we have left.
