"On his face is a map of the world"

I first saw this man's face between the pages of National Geographic magazine, sometime in 1988.

It was 'love' at first sight.

I don't remember what the article was about, or even where, in the world, he was from.... but none of that's important.

The face intrigues me. I look at it often.

What history lies behind that well-worn and weathered, but seemingly contented, visage?

What stories could he tell?

How old his he?...does he even know?

Is it the face of a simple man, on a hillside tending sheep?
Or of a fighter, a witness to horrors I can only hope to never share?

His story changes, every time I look into those eyes.

............

I have the magazine in a box somewhere.

Occasionally I think about tracking him down and reminding myself who he really is...but I know I never will.

............

Soundtrack: 'From Yesterday' ~ 30 Seconds to Mars