George Cahlik | Baltimore, Md.

This is a picture of a small statue in the heart of Mt. Vernon. It sits opposite of another statue symbolizing War. Before moving to Baltimore after graduating from graduate school, I almost felt as though I was at war with everything, but mostly I was just disappointed with myself and frustrated with my personal outlook. I had previously lived in Washington, D.C. and I found the social, cultural, political, and economic environment maddening. I found some solace, safety, and resolve in my surroundings — a bit ironic for a city that is infamously known for its poverty and crime. This is not to understate the problems that plague the city, it’s just to say that personally, I found peace in it — to me, it is a symbol of hope.