Best Photos of 2012, and Why: From Syria to the New York Harbor

If I had to commit, I’d vouch for this image as my photo of the year. Why? Part of it has to do with the respectful and dignified way it depicts the fallen rebel fighter (and the underdog’s improvisation, too).

More so, though, I simply can’t look at the picture (and I’ve looked at it long and often) without thinking of the Statue of Liberty. Adding that in, the photo also references America’s identity when it comes to conscience and how much any moral and strategic conflict — almost anywhere, unavoidably — reflects back on us.

Please read the Lightbox backstory on Maysun and the photo here.

(Photo: Maysun — EPA, October 13, 2012)