Image of the Week

Happy Mother’s Day!

© Durga Yael Bernhard

Song of Sorrow, Song of Joy

Motherhood isn’t easy under the best of circumstances.  Along with the joy comes a lot of frustration, hard work, and sometimes, sorrow.  Birth and death are inextricably connected – and sometimes, they happen together.

This image commemorates one mother’s grief following the stillborn birth of her first child.  Exactly a year later, her second child was born, alive and well – and to this day, she is considered a second child.  The two daughters were named Song of Sorrow and Song of Joy by their grandmother.  I was honored to paint this illustration of their story, in which both daughters take their place in the family’s history, and in the cycle of creation.

To all mothers who have suffered such a loss, you have all my respect.  Mothers and midwives everywhere, you have all my respect.  Children born and unborn, you are remembered and real.

Today’s our day to celebrate and be celebrated.  I just spent an hour talking to my 23-year-old daughter, my middle child – and can think of no greater pleasure than hearing her voice on this pleasant Sunday morning.  My children are unspeakable gifts.  All children come as a living blessing that is constantly renewed.  The pulse of creation continues.

Order Song of Sorrow, Song of Joy as a POSTER this week, and get a free greeting card (of the same image)!   $10 for the poster and card, shipping included.  Order your poster here!

Wishing you a good week,