Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Beauty and Sadness

It is always an honor to have work you have done displayed for the public. As artists, we strive to reach a point where that is possible.
Today, however, I find myself wishing this was one time my work was not on display as it is offering an altar of solace and healing for PGA player Chris Smith, whose wife was tragically lost in an auto accident. The extended Smith Family attends my church, and Steve, my minister, had e-mailed me yesterday morning that he had set up the altar Sunday evening with the stole for those who wished to come and pray. He also mentioned I might want to come see it.

I immediately went into town with camera in hand, and these probably are the most detailed shots of the altar cloth and stole that I have. Steve and I talked, and as chance had it, I had grabbed a rosary on the way out. Despite the difference of denominations, I found it a perfect place to use the small, white beads.
So for over an hour, I was at one with beauty, grief, prayer and the fragileness of this life we call our own. We have no guarantees of tomorrows; the todays are what we must use well and cherish.
Make use of your time and love those around you.
Pax.

8 comments:

teri said...

Anne
I sensed this tragedy would touch you in some way ... the entire town of Peru must be feeling this hurt. Your work is spectacular and will help ease the pain for those who come to pray for the family.

Anne Huskey-Lockard said...

Thanks Teri. Mostly, with the pastor in transition to leave, it all seems a bit surreal. But you do what you must and I was humbled and honored that Steve chose to put up the altar in the fashion he did.
Life is too short, and we take it so for granted.

Leslie said...

I am sorry for your and your community's loss. What a beautiful way to share your art and your loss.
Take care of you. Love.

Anne Huskey-Lockard said...

You too. And I'm working on the big things so that all that are left are little things to fret about.
XXXOOO!!!!

Linda and Michelle said...

This is incredibly beautiful - and on the altar the beauty and simplicity of the two together should give comfort to those who see it.

I will use today well.

Anne Huskey-Lockard said...

Linda, that's the best thing any single person can do; use their day well.

tallboy said...

I love the photographs! They help extend the ministry of this liturgical blessing for family and friends. Thank you.
in grace and peace,
Steve
p.s. the altar placing has been changed and the stole is now secure in my possession. Karen agreed with your sentiments, too. I am so humbled and blessed by all you have given me and all that you are. Semper Benedicte. Amen.

Anne Huskey-Lockard said...

As I said, if something special is needed for a ceremony of passage, I will be more than happy to provide.
Pax.

Post a Comment

Talk to me Dahling!
I'm waiting, breathless...... ;-D