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gabriel's return

gabriel six months earlier, san francisco, april 2006

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...it's 12:31 pm. march 2. 2007.

it's hard to breath sometimes as the pulse races. or do i just forget to?

the subject line reads "on the road boy"

"i know the boy... he never made it through the year"

...it's 5:59 pm. april 24. 2006. should it be this cold?

he's sitting on the corner. like it's his. he's panhandling.

waiting for a friend to bring back food.

i sit beside him.

as people pass, he's always noticed. some stop. some continue.

we talk about the road. about home. about life. about girls.

he's gentler than you'd think. more interested in things you say. and he cares more too.

he's not sure what's next; but says now's good.

his friend returns.

...it's october 17. 2006.

it's his gun.

it's his choice.

farewell.

gabriel joshua wolrab, may 3, 1985 - october 17, 2006.

for his mother, his sisters, his brothers, his friends.

277 Flickr comments:

Emi Lee ♣ says:

Beautiful shot.
R.I.P

...posted 7/29/2010 2:32:27 AM

thamimzy says:

What a cool character. Tell him that I like his earrings.

[ via flickriver --thamimzy ]

...posted 7/26/2010 4:44:35 PM

Boesepueppi says:

A tragical story behind this beautiful and interested face.
Outstanding work!

...posted 7/19/2010 3:39:06 PM

Boesepueppi says:

Hallo, ich bin der Administrator der Gruppe Art & Weise, und wir freuen uns, Ihr Foto unserer Gruppe hinzuzufügen.

...posted 7/19/2010 3:38:06 PM

Ambra Iride says:

La madonna... He's beautiful

...posted 6/6/2010 8:51:21 AM

Fate_lawliet says:

Gabriel...like the angel. Very fitting.

...posted 6/4/2010 1:07:02 AM

artland says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called artland, and we'd love to have this added to the group!

...posted 4/4/2010 2:02:24 PM

Sherrie St. Hilaire says:

Awesome portrait...again, thank you!

...posted 4/2/2010 2:22:53 AM

Ola Lila says:

mmm nice

...posted 3/24/2010 9:33:54 PM

angeleyes_317 says:

thank you for telling his story...as you have many others

...posted 3/6/2010 3:45:58 AM

My friends call me Abhi. says:

Lovely

...posted 3/5/2010 5:56:28 PM

Bru Grippa says:

VISIT MY FLICKR:

www.flickr.com/grippabru

...posted 2/7/2010 10:06:36 PM

Enrico Lo Storto (alenrylu) says:

Ciao, mi piacerebbe che tu partecipassi, con una tua foto, al contest "PEOPLE - GENTE".
Ti aspettiamo.
www.flickr.com/groups/foggiaedintorni/discuss/72157623101...

Hello, I'd like you to participate in them with your own pictures, the contest "PEOPLE - GENTE". We wait.
www.flickr.com/groups/foggiaedintorni/discuss/72157623101...

...posted 1/18/2010 2:28:08 PM

Kels-E says:

Beautiful. Just beautiful

...posted 12/13/2009 7:14:26 PM

Luduen says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Más Que Mil Palabras... (1 Post 2 Comentarios), and we'd love to have this added to the group!

Esta foto tiene alma!!!! This photo has spirit

Tu foto esta invitada a: / Your photo is invited to: Mas que Mil Palabras (♥Postea 1 Comenta 2♥)
Por favor sumala al grupo / please add it to the group!
Por Favor etiqueta tu foto con / Please tag the photo with "Mas que Mil Palabras"

...posted 12/6/2009 1:13:48 PM

OiLiLy says:

i feel choked now....there one minute ..gone the next ...very sad

...posted 12/3/2009 5:47:21 PM

Kaytee Dee says:

This hits far too close to home for comfort.
But that was probably the point.

Marvelous.

...posted 12/2/2009 10:19:09 PM

SANDIMASS says:

magnetic

...posted 11/20/2009 11:56:54 PM

davidiorio says:

so sad...

...posted 11/20/2009 12:28:00 PM

lauren kristin says:

So much emotion. I wish I could have talked to him.

...posted 11/15/2009 4:54:43 AM

ody_santippe [many things to learn] says:

what a beautiful face...

...posted 9/30/2009 12:00:06 PM

Mustang. says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called black & white collection, anything, and we'd love to have this added to the group!

...posted 9/30/2009 5:04:56 AM

Bylle1012 says:

What a interesting looking boy! Wonderful shot!

...posted 9/16/2009 11:51:51 AM

karapils says:

such an amazing photo/boy

...posted 9/15/2009 1:27:25 PM

Alexandra Nicole Photography says:

Great portrait, he is absolutely stunning. RIP

...posted 9/13/2009 6:49:13 AM

*skipping*in*the*meadow* says:

a sad loss of a beautiful soul

...posted 8/29/2009 12:41:44 PM

Stephen B Whatley says:

God bless his soul.

...posted 8/27/2009 8:18:53 PM

Curious Joerg says:

man too bad he couldn't hang on a while. things always change.
r.i.p., kid

...posted 8/23/2009 5:58:12 AM

New_Mojo says:

Beautiful picture. As for the story, I've seen it happen far too often, but not usually as quickly.

...posted 8/5/2009 3:34:32 PM

Bunnykiss1991 says:

he's so beautiful
this makes me want to cry :(

...posted 6/17/2009 4:26:43 AM

lifelalife says:

i found the other picture of gabriel when i googled 'ear gauges' back in '07. i was obsessed with his face. i googled it again today and i'm BEYOND devastated. even though i never knew him i feel like this picture said more to me about him than he ever could. i remember i had showed him to a friend and we joked about moving to portland to find him... what a damn shame. thank you for these awesome photos :)

...posted 5/17/2009 2:13:35 AM

MrSpock says:

wow great shot

...posted 5/13/2009 4:10:30 AM

Che troiaggine. Che schifo tu. says:

Beautiful portrait.

...posted 5/10/2009 4:18:23 PM

Loretta Stephens13 says:

He's got such an old face, (it's his eyes: they are trying to tell you his story...) soul as well..
I am so sorry for this loss..
My deepest condolences to you and his family and friends...

...posted 5/8/2009 10:57:07 PM

Photography JC says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Le Face, and we'd love to have this added to the group!

...posted 5/7/2009 2:50:13 PM

rubbinoivan says:

bello

...posted 5/6/2009 5:12:51 PM

tokidoki_i says:

Aww that is really heart breaking and he was so handsome. :(

...posted 5/5/2009 1:07:18 AM

R.O.S.I.E. says:

this is so much more then just a photograph

...posted 4/26/2009 11:27:57 PM

hiç says:

You have been invited to join:
Elite 'HUMAN' Photographs

Please add this photo to the Elite 'HUMAN' Photographs

...posted 4/10/2009 5:48:34 AM

clearly_kels says:

amazing photo.
he is a beautiful person.
I'm beyond sad after reading his story.

...posted 4/3/2009 9:12:36 PM

madcrow says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Explored <100, and we'd love to have this added to the group!

...posted 3/31/2009 6:02:53 PM

SocoPh0t0 says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Be Creative Photography, i love the creativity and the Profundity of this image,i am pleased to invite this photo to my group, thanks :)

...posted 3/18/2009 6:32:24 AM

AcousticMike says:

Powerful.

...posted 3/16/2009 12:24:20 AM

heyjennuh says:

I love this picture so much but I don't know why.
Everything about it is just amazing.

...posted 3/13/2009 2:56:20 PM

SocoPh0t0 says:

wow. What a great story, it's unexpected sometimes when you take the time to read the description, it definitely changed the way I looked at the photograph.

...posted 2/24/2009 6:20:45 PM

Maxxtoxxic2 Naden says:

Am totally in love with this pic. Its just cool

...posted 1/6/2009 9:52:40 AM

Daniel R. Schultz. says:

Fantastic moment for your photo...
Fabulous...

...posted 12/15/2008 9:30:29 PM

Libby Loo says:

He is so beautiful. This broke my heart to pieces... Thank you for opening everyone's eyes to the truth of the homeless. This collection you have is amazing.

...posted 12/13/2008 9:52:50 PM

.Raymond says:

great photo

...posted 11/28/2008 11:52:13 PM

fotobenja says:

perfectttttt

...posted 11/26/2008 7:10:08 PM

Little Lioness says:

Not sure what you'll think of this. It's graffiti in Bristol, England. But I though it was interesting, and that you might want to see it. It's done by an artist who has commented on the photo in the link below.

www.flickr.com/photos/_saturnine/1345280161/

...posted 11/21/2008 8:59:00 PM

Little Lioness says:

I once ran into a young homeless man while I wa out shooting for my dad's company. He told me his name was Robin, and that he'd been traveling up and down along the west coast for a long time. He was in a band, and had worked for the National Historic Society after serving in the Army. He sounded like a very interesting man. But what really struck me about him was the fact that he seemed to regard everyone around him as equal to one-another. They were not above or below him; they were all simply human. Nothing more, nothing less. And though I was the one standing there with my brand new cell phone, my iPod, and my fancy camera, I was the one who felt envious of him. I wished that I could see people the way that he did. I guess that a lot of the time, we are too caught up with our own chaotic lives to step back and see things as they are, not as we think they are. It's been a long while, and I've wandered the streets of Portland, watching countless faces go by. Not once have I see Robin since. But I learned more from him than I think I could ever learn from walking the halls of my high school. This reminded me of Robin. Thanks.

...posted 11/16/2008 12:12:10 AM

David E. Plourde says:

wow Like an angel.

...posted 11/12/2008 5:24:32 PM

Tibby is finally back! says:

So touching.
You photostream brings tears to my eyes.

...posted 11/7/2008 1:01:24 PM

RABODIGA says:

OMG!!!!!!
Gabriel looks like an angel, he has name of an angel, and angels are in heaven...your work is amazing, and taking that from people, that essence...simply amazing...we all will remember Gabriel forever thank to your portrait

...posted 10/30/2008 4:18:52 PM

Black&Color says:

Some pictures stay with you forever, this is one of them. I feel a sense of loss for a man I never knew. I wanted to write, today, because it has been two years and I do still remember Gabriel.

...posted 10/17/2008 7:13:56 PM

juliet.ki says:

Gabe, we miss u......this picture is amazing and I'm crying endlessly still....it makes me wish I knew what was going on in ur beautiful soul...?!? I was there that night just wish i would have stayed longer talked more... caught up on the years since we had seen each other....Rest in Peace love I will never forget u.

...posted 9/21/2008 2:26:41 PM

hiacinte05 says:

Young, beautiful, tragic - so romantic, i love it...

...posted 9/15/2008 1:06:32 PM

Tapioles 54 says:

cuando ves tantos comentarios sobre tu foto tan fantasticos supongo que solo te keda darte cuenta que tienes un don con la fotografia. Me encanta él, no sus ojos , no su sonrisa, no sus dilataciones. El transmite mucho.

...posted 8/28/2008 3:27:55 PM

Andreas Constantinou ® says:

Excellent shot!!
Great portrait!!
Well done!!

How sad indeed!! Farewell then!! =(
I wish you have found a better life where you are now!! ;)

...posted 8/23/2008 6:55:11 PM

Phils Room says:

I am moved by all of these photos and stories and ever saw a place to purchase prints. But what bothers me is the idea someone is making money off of these people. Do you share the money made off of the these photos?

...posted 8/20/2008 6:02:19 PM

krystal__ says:

Such a sad story,
A true angel on earth
Rest In Peace Gabriel.
<3

...posted 8/14/2008 12:27:11 AM

Frankie Pierce says:

great pic you took, but such a tragic loss, my deepest condolences....

...posted 7/29/2008 1:40:33 PM

Ema Suvajac Photography says:

Found this video of him on youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyiWQlI_D94

What a wonderful photo.

...posted 7/24/2008 2:27:58 AM

lydiabullockphoto says:

this is absolutely stunning.

...posted 7/22/2008 9:42:37 PM

dyathink says:

tragic loss..as a parent, this breaks my heart into pieces. My sympathies to his family who lost someone so beloved. Stoneth, your work inspires me to go deeper than ever before in my street shooting, to penetrate, to not be so fearful. Thank you..

...posted 7/22/2008 6:08:01 AM

mariaB o h e r a says:

what a handsome!!!!
fantastic portraits!! very expressive and personals

:)

...posted 7/14/2008 3:18:30 PM

JOLT 73 says:

www.flickr.com/photos/68brokenwindows/2575583006/sizes/o/

...posted 6/25/2008 9:08:34 PM

[dn] Arin says:

It's just mind blowing to see my friends face and then to see everyone elses comments. I always come back here just to see. Never gets easier, just makes me miss him more. But I still appreciate it <3

...posted 6/24/2008 8:58:56 AM

violetta667 says:

really, really beutiful portraits you have, i use to go twice or more a year to sf i really love the people and the city,,, congratulation for your work, gretts from mexico

...posted 6/12/2008 12:42:51 AM

Miss_Tilly says:

Reading his story and looking into his eyes almost made me cry. He has to have one of the most incredible faces i've ever seen.
r.i.p Gabriel

Your an amazing photographer =]

...posted 6/10/2008 12:35:00 PM

uhleashuh says:

my god, thats devastating.. he was a beautiful young man!

...posted 5/21/2008 2:01:30 AM

Olivia Gray says:

I have only ever seen this kid on your photostream,
but just from the picture and the story I feel like a fraction of my self, though miniscule in size, will never quite feel the same...

...posted 5/13/2008 10:53:50 PM

Sinsong says:

aww.............................................

...posted 4/9/2008 8:09:13 AM

eckmeck11 says:

again, stoneth: thanks a lot for your work! but, I asked myselfe, where do you take the power from not to get broken with your fotos and the stories behind?

...posted 4/5/2008 3:37:07 PM

thisisforkeeps. says:

You are my winner!
Please add this photo to
www.flickr.com/groups/mywinners/

...posted 3/23/2008 3:20:40 PM

misnixalot says:

This has been the hardest to see so far for sure.

...posted 2/29/2008 11:23:06 PM

StoopidGirl says:

wow....this world is so sad some times. This is amazing and emotional

...posted 2/21/2008 5:46:40 AM

Tyldesley08 says:

Beautiful Face

RIP .

...posted 2/19/2008 10:33:44 PM

SiobhianCarroll says:

Wow.
What a terrible shame.

...posted 2/19/2008 10:43:46 AM

KMADD Enterprise says:

god he was beautiful such a shame - sighs

...posted 1/31/2008 12:58:53 PM

Withering Grief says:

His eyes never cease to amaze me :_(
such a loss to lose someone as beautiful as him

...posted 1/29/2008 9:50:39 PM

raulgbz says:

I <3 him! He's so HOT!!! Why??!?!?

...posted 1/22/2008 9:44:43 PM

d0b13 says:

beautiful.

...posted 12/31/2007 12:43:03 AM

thisisforkeeps. says:

speechless.

...posted 12/30/2007 4:19:52 PM

izadobielewska says:

awesome portrait *_* and lovely face :)

...posted 12/11/2007 7:30:37 PM

desmondsdoll says:

Gabriel was (and is) so amazingly handsome and beautiful ~ his eyes were piercing, especially in this photo, his bone structure was amazing ~ I can't describe enough just how gorgeous he was and reading about him makes me want to cry ~ he seemed so lovely and gentle yet his inner torment must have been horrendous.

Bless you darling Gabriel and bless your family too.

...posted 12/7/2007 6:03:25 PM

nakota672 says:

This is Gabe's younger sister, not his mom, im on her account. This touched hard for me. At the same time it amazed me. You have a way with words, just like he did, you captured his soul, and this pictures shows that. What you wrote, for not knowing him very well, stated who he was. I am more grateful than you will ever know for the things you have done and said. He was my only sibling, and my bestfriend. This picture, whether i have it for forever will always be in my heart. Thank you.

...posted 12/7/2007 6:30:08 AM

Vrael says:

beautiful picture, just beautiful..i can't belive he's gone..

i hope his soul rest in peace

...posted 12/1/2007 2:05:54 AM

[dn] Arin says:

*le sigh* every time I see this picture it breaks my heart. my heart beats for him every day. fuck I miss him so much.

...posted 11/19/2007 2:39:07 AM

damselflies says:

he is so beautiful. :( why did he shoot himself how sad. xx

...posted 11/18/2007 11:05:54 AM

rumblemumbles says:

I am incredibly saddened by this story. All of your stories have me in tears. I once interviewed a man the same age who battled against so much. Your stories have bought back the smells, the sounds and the tears of that interview. I hope Gabriel finds happiness where he is now.

...posted 11/15/2007 3:58:11 AM

foxfjord says:

In the photo it's like he is all-seeing - so sad that he could not find his way. He was so handsome. Peace Gabriel.

...posted 11/14/2007 11:30:57 PM

logan_scott says:

goodbye gabriel...

...posted 11/14/2007 11:25:09 PM

Darrian Amaker (cαlypso) says:

Could've been me
Could've been you
How many times have I said
I've just had one or two
It's a sobering thought
It's a sobering sight
How like a bad, bad dream
You can lose everything
On a careless night
Be the one who lives
Be the one who's gone
Be the mother whose heart
Has to somehow go on
But she'll leave
Flowers by the side of the road
Yeah, that's all that's left
Of the hopes and dreams
Of two seventeen year-olds
Some dreams live on
And some, they don't
All that's left to know
All that's left to show
Are flowers by the side of the road

...posted 11/14/2007 8:37:48 PM

rdmsf says:

Made me cry in the middle of class. What a waste. blessings to you for sharing his story and his memory.

...posted 11/3/2007 5:46:04 PM

nakota672 says:

I come and sit here in front of your words because they let me know he was real....not just a dream. I miss him so much!

...posted 10/27/2007 6:44:30 AM

rizzleforshizzle says:

Speechless.

...posted 10/23/2007 5:04:48 PM

krystal__ says:

this made me cry so much
RIP Gabriel, you were truly an angel on earth that deserved a much better life <33

...posted 10/22/2007 4:41:38 AM

surfermike777 says:

At least Gabriel is here to inspire us thru these photos ! Thank you Gabriel .

...posted 10/17/2007 3:28:48 AM

sapixie says:

Rest in Peace beautiful soul......

Your work touches everyone who takes the time to read and view it - you embrace there souls and lives with a different outlook and see them for the human being they are and the soul they have inside.

Thank you for opening our eyes to the beautyf of these special people.

...posted 10/16/2007 10:50:48 AM

leila-anne says:

I'm sitting here in a coffeeshop in sf crying now. What a beautiful image.

...posted 10/16/2007 2:18:43 AM

Kim The Star Princess says:

Darkened Tink...you're the one on his mom's MySpace? I am so sorry for your loss. I don't know you or Gabe personally, but I know that you must be very special to have been so special to him.

...posted 10/11/2007 6:19:20 AM

Darkened Tink says:

My heart started to race when I came across his eyes looking straight into mine. It's been so long since I've been able to capture that feeling. The words Stoneth wrote are an accurate description of Gabe. I miss him so much sometimes it seems like a fairytale with a crooked ending. The only thing twisted is the crooked ending is real. I don't blame him, but I miss him. Two weeks it will be a year.

...posted 10/8/2007 9:07:39 PM

cherrytree151 says:

Such a beautiful face. I'm sure he had a beautiful soul too. So sad he died young.
RIP

...posted 10/3/2007 10:28:16 PM

it.girl ragdoll says:

beautiful. this is beyond words.

...posted 10/3/2007 9:24:45 PM

mirrorballet says:

god. What a beautiful boy, and what a sad departure. i walk by pan handlers all the time in san francisco...all i have to say is that regardless of what they want, i always make a note to acknowledge every one with a hello.

...posted 9/26/2007 9:00:09 AM

★ mewot ★ says:

condolences to the family.
life is really hard.
thank you for sharing this.

...posted 9/24/2007 1:26:51 AM

lccwong says:

May he be well, where he is now.

...posted 9/17/2007 3:44:22 PM

dirtypearl 2005-2009 says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Male Photographs, and we'd love to have your photo added to the group.

...posted 9/17/2007 10:28:09 AM

dirtypearl 2005-2009 says:

sad story - but the face lives on here...

...posted 9/17/2007 10:26:32 AM

DRose69 says:

I hope he has found peace, your photo and his story will / has effected so many., he wont be forgotten

...posted 9/9/2007 6:37:53 PM

Desired says:

i saw this guy before, looks like a friend of mine.
very cool, the story adds it all

...posted 8/26/2007 2:48:53 PM

fancyfebruary says:

I was and still am deeply deeply moved by this picture and this story. It makes me so sad and pushes me into deep thought about how things like this happen every single day. Makes me wish I could reach out to someone/people like Gabriel and make a difference in their lives...for the better.

...posted 8/25/2007 7:06:15 PM

..maggie says:

I cried when I read this. I am so glad there are people like you who don't just walk past people as if they are trash, or nothing. Thank you.

...posted 8/22/2007 12:48:04 PM

-Cortni Marie- says:

Wow, you are amazing. My heart goes out to these people, I really wish I could help them. You are a good person to talk with them and tell their story. It makes me so mad at our goverment to not help these lost souls.

...posted 8/21/2007 7:39:00 PM

Christian Carocca says:

mmm handsome =)

...posted 8/19/2007 6:14:46 PM

乌鸦nina says:

so sad.....

...posted 8/17/2007 10:55:26 AM

Mors from Edgar's factory says:

It's so touching that it's hard to breath

...posted 8/12/2007 9:38:29 AM

Magpie Skinnies - Meg says:

So very sad... Thanks again for sharing your work. Your photos are lovely and you do such a good job telling a bit of these peoples stories.

...posted 8/8/2007 2:21:13 PM

Leeanne munn says:

October 17....... my birthday... get the feeling

...posted 8/1/2007 5:46:51 AM

gypsy008 says:

incredible photo..
did he really commit suicide?
i find it hard to believe.. then again, i didn't know his life story.
such a shame.

...posted 7/18/2007 9:19:01 PM

piris* says:

bellissima foto!

...posted 7/15/2007 11:42:21 PM

como_un_pez_en_el_agua says:

WOW...incredible eyes

...posted 7/15/2007 7:18:12 PM

smashing snapshots says:

farewell..

...posted 7/14/2007 10:15:07 AM

G@! says:

You brought a little piece of his world to us with this pictures and those words. And this is more than photography.

...posted 7/11/2007 2:08:08 AM

durhamcat2000 says:

God! S***!!!! The story gives me a hollow feeling, like another good person just got kicked in the teeth. Life really has to suck bad for someone to take their own life...takes guts too I don't care what anybody says.

I just hope he's free from his pain, whatever that may have been. The next damn life had better be kind to this guy. xxxxxx

...posted 7/1/2007 10:30:06 PM

ooneyanne says:

This is a beautiful man. Too bad he felt the need to eliminate his blessing from the earth.

...posted 6/30/2007 1:03:50 AM

frogstomper says:

You're photos are inspiring. Thankyou.

...posted 6/29/2007 6:15:11 AM

SteelePop says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called atomic number 6 - carbon, and we'd love to have your photo added to the group.

...posted 6/26/2007 9:58:54 PM

...Paola... says:

I saw this picture last night and thought it was incredible , still do , but i just read the story..
so sad....

...posted 6/26/2007 9:25:16 PM

mergencyroom says:

He's absolutely gorgeous..
It's sad that people with such great looks, and just as much potention and purpose as everyone else, don't seem too see there own inner beauty.

Rip dude, Whoever you were..

...posted 6/9/2007 5:39:58 AM

annawentz says:

i am speechless. you're amazing.

...posted 6/8/2007 2:13:23 AM

Matilde Gaspar Silva says:

he was incredibly handsome. It just chocks me... He was only a couple years older than me.. what can drive someone that has a whole future ahead to do such a thing?

...posted 6/4/2007 8:34:45 PM

Carlijn G. says:

This photo and the story makes me cry. Beautiful!

...posted 6/4/2007 2:41:53 AM

Michele Torsello says:

incredible and expressive shot.......you are a talent!!!

...posted 5/31/2007 2:25:54 PM

jill_the_duck says:

he was beautiful.

...posted 5/31/2007 12:13:44 AM

fisiolo says:

poor boy

...posted 5/30/2007 12:22:34 PM

berlintapes says:

peace

...posted 5/29/2007 10:13:38 PM

LittleBowPeep says:

You should publish your images as a book... they're amazing! Your photography is flawless, and the subject is raw and beautiful. It could be a charitable book, give the money to those you take pictures of. People would certainly buy it. I know I would pay a lot for something like that!

...posted 5/28/2007 5:05:19 PM

Roman Smirnoff says:

Beautiful!

...posted 5/12/2007 5:53:27 PM

agooost says:

what a sad story...

...posted 5/4/2007 8:14:10 PM

nakota672 says:

Gabe would have been 22 today. Somewhere he still travels. I miss him

...posted 5/3/2007 9:57:51 AM

Diego Patagónico says:

how do you do to take a pic of a face with so much proportion? by the way, that boy looks like me :P

...posted 5/2/2007 10:23:50 PM

john edward says:

you work is full of life as always..!!

...posted 5/2/2007 11:57:48 AM

Julien Muguet says:

I can't even begin to find words for this photo and how moving it is Tom ...

...posted 4/21/2007 1:09:37 PM

whinix says:

Like
him.

.w.

...posted 4/16/2007 3:49:14 AM

babushka says:

so young...

...posted 4/14/2007 1:00:16 PM

Dorian Gray Forever says:

Awesome work here !

...posted 4/14/2007 2:48:14 AM

that girl from flashdance says:

Hmmm, not sure I agree with that AwFreakOut.
Why did I originally feel drawn to these pictures of Gabriel? His eyes....this portrait is so touching and intimate that you felt you could see into his soul.
I personally believe that was partly to do with the great sorrow that Gabriel must have carried but also the talent of the photographer.

But hey, what do I know.....

...posted 4/13/2007 11:08:53 AM

AwFreakOut says:

This is tragic on so many levels. You see an outwardly beautiful person who must have been torn up inside. Because the world says he's attractive it seems people feel even worse for him; young, good-looking people who die seem dramatically sadder. Not to say we don't feel sorrow for ALL, especially those who make his decision, especially for the young. His family must ache. I'm glad you captured a part of him.

...posted 4/13/2007 2:11:54 AM

fotoattack says:

I faved this photo a long time ago...
This is really a beautiful tribute to his family and friends.
xo) I'm sorry and thank you for sharing this with us.

...posted 4/11/2007 6:58:07 PM

fesign says:

I am in love with your portraits!

...posted 4/8/2007 7:44:13 PM

Abo - Julien Robitaille says:

I had a long moment of silence looking at him without words...
We have a lot to learn from this sad story...first time of my life that i am so deeply touched by a photo...i would like to stop the time and...

My deepest condolences to his mother and family.

Goodbye, Gabriel !

Thanks for sharing this, to me it is the best portrait of the year !!

...posted 4/4/2007 6:49:49 PM

Lina Palmerin says:

wow ive been going through all of your pictures reading the stories under each picture and now its 2:3o in the moring...im a big fan..your amazing

...posted 4/3/2007 9:26:00 AM

sapixie says:

You are one of my favorite photographers on Flickr and I would be honoured if you join Flickr Favorite Photographers

...posted 4/3/2007 7:02:20 AM

CyanThoughts says:

that's really sad... but i guess we have to deal with it. people come and go...
he looked much like my cousin...

...posted 3/31/2007 7:48:06 PM

sarah ... says:

sad, very sad

...posted 3/30/2007 4:24:31 PM

artOtek says:

Great one!
Moving portrait and personal story...

...posted 3/28/2007 8:48:02 AM

-gone- says:

cooL!

...posted 3/24/2007 9:39:16 PM

Lifeline.Designz says:

Amazing

...posted 3/23/2007 3:59:26 PM

waking_dream says:

Life as a human is a mystery wrapped in an enigma.

...posted 3/23/2007 4:27:45 AM

morderte says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called beautiful portraits, and we'd love to have your photo added to the group.

...posted 3/21/2007 1:11:34 AM

neloqua says:

This portrait is an icon here on Flickr!
Goodbye, G!

...posted 3/19/2007 9:33:57 PM

Kim The Star Princess says:

I think that Original Ann said exactly what I was thinking. Thank you for sharing his story.

...posted 3/19/2007 6:13:09 AM

sMacshot says:

What madness. I read all of your captions, and it is so draining. This is occurring under God's watchful eye, and it's hard to understand. I can only hope that the afterlife makes the suffering all worth it. And I believe it will.

...posted 3/19/2007 5:13:40 AM

si3illa says:

You moved me to tears once again.

...posted 3/18/2007 8:25:46 PM

ChatOmbre says:

Thank you so much for sharing these photographs of people and their stories.... I find them very touching. I'm not sure how to describe the feeling I get when I see and read them...

...posted 3/18/2007 3:12:48 AM

capriana says:

Your pictures all have such a sad truth to them
beautiful, and burdening.
A true photographer.
Thanks for sharing, and expanding my thought bubble just a little past the horizon.

I've had experience with this kind of thing too.
Hope you're happy Gabriel.

...posted 3/14/2007 8:22:55 PM

zuleivasalinas says:

Nunca hay que pasar desapersibidos por la sociedad , somos grandes al identificarnos como seres humanos.

...posted 3/11/2007 1:38:48 AM

zuleivasalinas says:

Beutiful message

...posted 3/11/2007 1:35:32 AM

Nicote says:

good face

...posted 3/9/2007 6:20:34 PM

[ " OMINOUS " ] says:

You are great photographer!

very impressive

did he have enough of life?! I can understand that

...posted 3/9/2007 2:34:59 PM

FranUlloa says:

... was sad to know he is dead. Great picture.

...posted 3/8/2007 8:48:15 PM

~~V~~ says:

I am so sorry for Gabriel..But ....Why??

...posted 3/8/2007 8:41:20 PM

P0IS0NGIRL says:

passionate

...posted 3/8/2007 6:16:48 PM

StormyinGA says:

All I can see here is a baby boy. Sad. Tragic. Such a waste, yet somehow I am stronger for it, because it will make me do something and it will be because of this. Because of him.

...posted 3/8/2007 1:59:28 PM

jolupaz says:

nice portarit... nice eyes

...posted 3/8/2007 12:12:34 PM

patisfaction ~ censored says:

sorry 2 read this
RiP Gabriel
beautiful memorial

...posted 3/8/2007 11:29:06 AM

{Lain} says:

I admire you for what you do. For explaining the world these stories.
There should be more photos of souls and less snapshots.

Truly amazing.

--
Seen on your photo stream. (?)

...posted 3/7/2007 9:28:14 PM

G Garibay says:

Lo que esta historia nos debería enseñar es: que puedo hacer yo por gentes como Gabriel, que acaban así por sentirse solos y/o abandonados. Porque de que se puede, se puede.
Lo que tu haces dandoles un sentido mas humano a los desprotegidos de la calle, no solo es loable sino admirable.
Saludos

What this history should teach us is: what can I do for people like Gabriel, that finish theirs lives this way because of felling alone and/or abandoned. How many lives could be saved? we don't know, but that something can be done it's a fact. What you are doing giving the homeless, a more kind, human treat not alone is commendable but admirable.
Saludos

...posted 3/7/2007 8:30:51 PM

BeeS and StickS says:

he was so beautiful. how deeply sad. i hope he is finally at peace. his image will forever stay in my mind.

...posted 3/7/2007 3:05:15 AM

pk69 says:

a beautifull portrait!!!

--
Seen in my contacts' photos. (?)

...posted 3/6/2007 9:02:21 PM

Bruna Marchioro says:

"it's his gun.

it's his choice.

farewell."

heavy, hum

it's our choice, right, but still so sad...

...posted 3/6/2007 1:40:18 PM

jewel75 says:

his struggle is over...beautiful work

...posted 3/5/2007 4:23:03 AM

is a belle says:

beautiful.

...posted 3/4/2007 8:35:42 PM

GrandmaSondra says:

life is a choice. a gift at first . It not all up to us which way we turn. Influenced by others along the way we catch ourselves, at times,just down on our choices. Many loose site of themselves along the way. It is not always for hopeless reason but sometimes a need to find peace among the struggle of life. May his soul be at peach with God.

...posted 3/4/2007 5:41:48 PM

humphreyphotography says:

Your ability to admire, love, and encourage are just as admirable as your photographs. I hope Gabriel found the peace he was searching for.

...posted 3/4/2007 5:13:40 PM

rumer.cri says:

superb work. and thank to remind. and thanks for this look.

...posted 3/4/2007 12:20:17 PM

Paradise Regained says:

respect, tom - and thanks

...posted 3/4/2007 11:26:50 AM

mag.m says:

Touching story....
And such a great portrait.

...posted 3/4/2007 11:14:06 AM

http://robertoballerini.ipernity.com says:

Magnificent portrait

--
Seen in the interestingness archives. (?)

...posted 3/4/2007 10:19:12 AM

Proggie says:

Your photo of Gabriel was one of the first I faved many months ago when I first got my account. At the time it realy moved me and i was hoping that
Gabriel would be able to get back on his feet. I'm so sad that he didn't make it.

...posted 3/4/2007 7:57:10 AM

Amsterdamned! says:

Incredible !
U are invited to post this superb portrait to The Flickr Portrait Gallery and to become a member !
www.flickr.com/groups/portrait-gallery

...posted 3/4/2007 5:40:34 AM

sinparpado says:

que retratos mas geniales !!! el detalle es exquisito

...posted 3/4/2007 3:32:07 AM

chatallot says:

He will be remembered by this wonderful photograph of him.
Farewell Gabriel. God Bless.

...posted 3/4/2007 12:42:09 AM

-calexico says:

thank you for bringing gabriel (and many others) closer to us stoneth.

...posted 3/3/2007 11:23:24 PM

wally. says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called e p i c, and we'd love to have your photo added to the group.

...posted 3/3/2007 9:23:39 PM

Federico Erra says:

wow!

...posted 3/3/2007 9:14:41 PM

io the mad cow says:

That's so sad... beautiful photo. Requiescat in pace.

...posted 3/3/2007 8:03:38 PM

spikeblacklab says:

Nakota672, I am so sorry for your loss and incredible pain... I wish you peace... I am sure he is in a place where his wounds have been healed, and he is smiling down on you. God bless...

...posted 3/3/2007 3:34:31 PM

Hettie Koens says:

Thanks a lot for sharing, this is so impressive, shocking that he died, what a waste!

...posted 3/3/2007 1:52:51 PM

BillyGPhotography says:

May he rest in piece, Thank you for sharing his Image that so many past by, this is our gift to see what others forget or don't want to see, Gods Speed.

...posted 3/3/2007 12:56:26 PM

nakota672 says:

As his mother......these words comfort and wound me both in the same instant. Waste Lake niye (my love to you all)

...posted 3/3/2007 8:47:11 AM

Ron Harmon says:

Man he was a good looking young man. I would think that he had everything to live for. Too bad life got to him. I feel sorry. You make him live on in your photo.

...posted 3/3/2007 5:49:02 AM

sunrisefoto says:

Great character

...posted 3/3/2007 5:09:16 AM

Photostudent says:

Beautiful picture, amazing eyes. I love the black and white, nice choice. Your writing about him though . . . was so sweet, so kind; it made me cry. I noticed he was only 21, which is so young . . . its kinda scary to me that people make those choices. Anyway, I'm really sorry about Gabriel because i lost my friend last june - she was just short of turning 14 and making it to high school.

...posted 3/3/2007 4:55:23 AM

Arif Siddiqui says:

Incredible picture !!

...posted 3/3/2007 4:01:48 AM

Greg Hill says:

Gabriel, ,,,the angel, ,,,who am I to question his choice,,, Were all terminal,
I always get to reflect on MY choices, when I view your photo's,,,, Thanks

...posted 3/3/2007 3:17:51 AM

QueenBee77 says:

Street life in ANY country in the world...makes me uneasy, regardless of how rich they are.

...posted 3/3/2007 1:27:00 AM

Out to Lunch says:

Street life in the richest country in the world. Always makes me uneasy.

...posted 3/3/2007 12:39:29 AM

spikeblacklab says:

A handsome young man, a beautiful, expressive portrait. You have captured the sensitivity, the gentleness in his eyes... He does not have the hardened look of those homeless who have given up all hope and withdrawn from the harsh, uncaring world around them. The barest hint of a smile, the detached gaze as he drifts off from the present to some other thought or memory...

Between then and October 17, 2006 there must have been unbearable pain to crush the last light of hope in those eyes. So unnecessary, the loss of a young life that could have been full of promise. If only people took the time to care, and listen.

...posted 3/3/2007 12:04:10 AM

Lanies POV says:

You are an incredible artist. You take photos of the souls on the streets, and show there souls in your captures.
I am glad that Flickr posted your photo on the front page so it could lead me to view what you are sharing with everyone
Appluase to your great eye

...posted 3/2/2007 10:52:35 PM

Sebastian Torresi says:

Very great portrait!

...posted 3/2/2007 10:23:00 PM

Pablo Resoalbe_ Pvlx says:

clap clap about the return!!!!_
excelent (y)_
also like your words_

...posted 3/2/2007 8:55:21 PM

Hana_photographer says:

reaches inside....shakes you....slowly tho....

...posted 3/2/2007 8:51:46 PM

Levan Kakabadze (tabu) says:

great portrait!

...posted 3/2/2007 8:09:36 PM

azli jamil - have mysterious illness :-( says:

I know I've seen this face before.

...posted 3/2/2007 7:43:44 PM

pearmax says:

Lo lamento. I'm sorry. Que descanse en paz.

...posted 3/2/2007 6:57:35 PM

ignacio_lpm says:

Que tristeza. Gracias Tomas.

...posted 3/2/2007 6:51:43 PM

p_vision says:

There is a weight pressing an ache into my chest now. Your portrait, your words, and the beautiful obit that cobaltbluetony so thoughtfully linked to have made such an impact on me, I wrote about it on my blog. Thought you might like to know; the post is at writeabouthere.blogspot.com/2007/03/looking-closely.html.

I really admire the work you are doing. My deepest condolences to those who knew and loved Gabriel.

...posted 3/2/2007 6:42:45 PM

dlemieux says:

i'm so sorry to hear that....he had such an interesting beauty.......another lost soul...

...posted 3/2/2007 5:58:22 PM

cobaltbluetony says:

Some people didn't read the text; just commented on how good the shot was. Like so many people on the street, he is just a face to them.

I too might forget him a year from now. But as long as I can, I will keep Gabriel Joshua Wolrab's face in my mind, so I can have a bit more compassion than the average commuter, who breezes past these faces without realizing they're real people who live and die right there on the pavement.

...posted 3/2/2007 5:46:28 PM

pushkins says:

Poor Gabriel.

...posted 3/2/2007 5:39:07 PM

that girl from flashdance says:

life is just too hard sometimes
I hope he has found peace now
sweet eyed boy

...posted 3/2/2007 4:59:59 PM

Joy is a Joy says:

oh baby....

sigh.

he's beautiful.

...posted 3/2/2007 4:55:23 PM

lipstickgallery says:

You are a blue ribbon winner! Please add your amazing photo to

Blue Ribbon Photography (invite only images)
Please tag your photo BlueRibbonWinner

...posted 3/2/2007 4:45:03 PM

luckygirllefty says:

no words.

...posted 3/2/2007 4:45:02 PM

Flutterbye_856 (Off More Than On) says:

Oh wow, so very sad indeed! So sorry!

...posted 3/2/2007 4:36:59 PM

shapeshift says:

great portrait as usual... 1-2-3.

...posted 3/2/2007 3:54:59 PM

olivelife says:

so sad. i'm so sorry.

...posted 3/2/2007 3:54:31 PM

dariuszka says:

it touches me deeply .... excellent work

...posted 3/2/2007 3:18:13 PM

leone. says:

why...>?

...posted 3/2/2007 3:17:20 PM

Cassie FX says:

A beautiful and touching tribute to Gabriel.

...posted 3/2/2007 2:59:45 PM

from minor to major says:

so sad. :(

beautiful portrait though. love his eyes and lips.

...posted 3/2/2007 2:56:44 PM

Amanda B._ says:

Is it strange that I feel relief for this kid? I dunno, I think sometimes saying goodbye is the most selfless thing we can do. There is often greater suffering in life than one person can manage.

...posted 3/2/2007 2:55:51 PM

Mr. Kris says:

Thank you for telling his story. It is truly sad that it ended this way.

...posted 3/2/2007 2:42:34 PM

ajr2309 says:

A soul broken; a life lost!

...posted 3/2/2007 2:39:17 PM

Annadriel says:

Strong photography...Splendid!

...posted 3/2/2007 2:37:54 PM

muskva says:

beautiful.

...posted 3/2/2007 2:31:23 PM

Don Frodo says:

So sorry for the boy. He seems so nice.

...posted 3/2/2007 2:21:53 PM

AntonioArcos aka fotonstudio says:

another masterpiece, awsome portrait!!

...posted 3/2/2007 2:21:49 PM

~BranchDesign says:

wow, this is so sad.

...posted 3/2/2007 2:11:30 PM

ArcherPhoto says:

Great pic. Sadness happens...

...posted 3/2/2007 2:11:01 PM

Baala says:

man, when is your book going to be edited? i think i'll buy dozens just to give it as present to everyone i know...

...posted 3/2/2007 1:36:44 PM

* Ahmad Kavousian * says:

Great work as always Tom

...posted 3/2/2007 1:14:32 PM

original_ann says:

Makes me want to just scream NO. To make it not so. To assure through the power of my voice that bad times are temporary. That this too would have passed and a permanent solution is not in order here.

Just look at that human being.. his eyes, his youth.. the veiled smile. The ripples he's left in his wake far reaching... Bless him. Bless his family.

no. no. no.

...posted 3/2/2007 1:13:49 PM

Dale73 says:

this is so heartbreaking, such a tragic choice.... the personalities and hope you capture with your photos is incredible.

...posted 3/2/2007 1:05:32 PM

QueenBee77 says:

:(((((

...posted 3/2/2007 12:44:48 PM

adamjfstorey says:

R.I.P
a moment of brief happiness captured ad vitam aeturnam (for all time)

...posted 3/2/2007 12:30:07 PM

RainAtDawn says:

Wow.
R.I.P.

...posted 3/2/2007 12:23:16 PM

wd9hot says:

Such a tragic loss,

...posted 3/2/2007 12:11:47 PM

harrymoon says:

no words. i'm glad you do

...posted 3/2/2007 12:07:46 PM

SteelePop says:

excellent shot

--
Seen on your photo stream. (?)

...posted 3/2/2007 12:07:33 PM

pfflyers1 says:

Riveting
Follow up with this mom
Go back some years

...posted 3/2/2007 11:49:49 AM

redhotjezebel says:

beautiful. so heartbreakingly sad.

...posted 3/2/2007 11:38:56 AM

nakota672 says:

My son...my child...my love...my loss

...posted 3/2/2007 11:25:22 AM

.marcel bianchi says:

so young... :/

...posted 3/2/2007 11:19:40 AM

Anna Pagnacco says:

Great portrait and tribute!! Anna

...posted 3/2/2007 11:18:02 AM

usamabhatti says:

heart breaking

--
Seen in my contacts' photos. (?)

...posted 3/2/2007 11:11:31 AM

PelayoLacazette says:

Superb portrait.

--
Seen in my contacts' photos. (?)

...posted 3/2/2007 11:09:14 AM

~btezra~ says:

OMG

so sad
a beautiful memorial to Gabriel
I appreciate your compassion Tom

...posted 3/2/2007 11:03:56 AM

unintelligiBill says:

As always your commentary is as powerful as your images, my prayers to his family and loved ones. It is such a tragedy to lose someone so young !

...posted 3/2/2007 10:58:39 AM

a.rud.beth says:

rest in peace, gabriel !
i admire your photos and what you do.

...posted 3/2/2007 10:58:09 AM

pîetbe says:

oh no.
i love you for putting this here again and telling gabriels story!

...posted 3/2/2007 10:56:01 AM

KMAIR* says:

▄

...posted 3/2/2007 10:47:50 AM

Sandi Marie says:

This breaks my heart :(

--
Seen in my contacts' photos. (?)

...posted 3/2/2007 10:44:14 AM

Letincelle says:

May his Soul rest in Peace.

...posted 3/2/2007 10:38:47 AM

Ariel.. says:

the details are amazing! awesome!

...posted 3/2/2007 10:35:18 AM

[] bichito [] says:

It's always a pleasure (maybe a raw pleasure) to see your photos again.

...posted 3/2/2007 10:33:57 AM

SuperKarmen says:

Incredible

--
Seen in 1-2-3 (?)

...posted 3/2/2007 10:31:14 AM

MoMaStalker says:

:(

...posted 3/2/2007 10:29:25 AM

Dodi Dudás says:

Awsome as usual !

(1-2-3)

...posted 3/2/2007 10:26:37 AM

chris nutt says:

Once again I'm drawn to tears. This is absolutely heartbreaking. My deepest condolences.

...posted 3/2/2007 10:23:30 AM

Vickykc says:

Wordless again, as usual... Amazing, though.

...posted 3/2/2007 10:16:48 AM

KewlGrrl says:

I'm so sorry to hear about Gabriel, my prayers are with his family and friends............k :)

...posted 3/2/2007 10:16:18 AM

.tyler. - Claudio Martella says:

goodbye

...posted 3/2/2007 10:12:32 AM