Back to Basics

Photos and Writing by Abby Hopkins

I chose to do my final photo essay “Back to Basics,” on the simple acts of kindness that we overlook in a generation that is criticized for forgetting about them. I thought that this story idea would be a great reminder of the good that still remains in the world, as we often get caught up in our own daily lives; creating the issue of simply forgetting to hold a door, help a stranger, and look up from our phones. I chose to seek out these acts, reminding both myself, and hopefully residents of Pullman, of the importance of looking out for others and living in the moment. Although this is not an issue that many consider to be prominent in a world of violence, homelessness, and hunger, I think that it is often the little things that people push to the side, making the bigger issues that much worse.

While at a coffee shop in Moscow, Idaho, I was waiting in line only to find out that my drink had already been paid for by the previous customer.

My roommate was having a rough day, so one of my other rommates made her dinner that night.

I took this photo when watching a student take the time to hold the door for many of his peers before entering the building himself.

What appears to be a couple holding hands and talking on the way to class.

While walking home from class, I saw something so pure: a woman playing fetch with her dog. No phone, no distractions, just simply playing with her dog.

My roomate has a shoulder injury, and I caught this photo of my brother helping her to put her groceries in the car.

I walked out of my apartment on the way to class and saw a girl picking trash up off the curb.

While we were at the grocery store, a stranger asked my roommate about a salad she was reaching for. From this simple question, they ended up having a long-lasting conversation.

While working a long shift, a friend brought me dinner, as I had forgotten my own.

After a stranger randomly bought my coffee, I decided to pay it forward as well while I was at Roost.