Another day, another person fighting off more than the cold

When we look at portraits, what happens?
Is there an instantaneous spark of recognition? 
Or a sputtering flame of empathy?
Do we make an immediate call whether to linger and somehow get to know the photographer's subject or quickly move on based on our mood at that very moment?
Do we tell ourselves stories pulled from our own experiences and world views? Or do we rely on the photographer to provide context and substance?
Is the power with the subject or the viewer?
And what is it about certain images that seem to leave an indelible imprint in our mind's eye.

This image is of a gentlemen named Chris and the more I look at him...look with him...at his reality, the more questions I have.