Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
The earth is but one country

After Hurricane Ian devastated the Fort Myers/Cape Coral area in September 2022, I went to this park, where this bench was untouched, sharing this message on it: "The earth is but one country and mankind its citizens - Bahai" This message is a reminder that we are all connected, regardless of our differences. We are all citizens of this planet, and we must all work together to rebuild and heal. I am grateful that this bench was untouched by the hurricane. It is a symbol of hope and resilience. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we can overcome and come together as one.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2022
Date Uploaded: 09.2023
Photo Location: Cape Coral, Florida, United States of America
Camera: SM-G998U
Copyright: © Christy Mandeville