When unable to provide for themselves and their children, most humans will seek any means necessary to do so. Even when conditions are entirely undesirable. Stung Meanchey garbage dump in Phnom Penh, Cambodia offers it’s unwanted contents to those without other recourse. Despairing souls stream in from the city and countryside alike for their chance to capture some of it’s valuables and exchange them for money and basic daily nutrition. Though the scene is unpleasant to be sure, it does not break the ever resilient spirit of the Khmer people. Smiles and joy are to be found simply by scratching the surface. The people there should become unexpected teachers to us all, that peace and contentment are found wholly within and can be delivered on demand, even in the face of external circumstances that logically summon the opposite.

Click image to view full gallery