The United Arab Emirates turns 50

The United Arab Emirates celebrates its 50th National Day. The country has officially reached middle age, but still has a lot of growing up to do.

The lights and celebrations are aplenty, none of which I am participating in. Instead, I’m choosing to reflect quietly away from all the noise. I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to turn 50, since I myself have reached this age.

This photo is from 2011, taken by me. I always wonder if this graffiti is an earnest gesture or written in jest.