Imagine arriving at the artist studio to have your portrait painted. You would poise in a typical stance, hold your hands in your customary manner and hope the end result showed your true self.
What symbols would the artist paint around you to represent your life?
I attended a workshop last week where we explored this question. Two Benedictine sisters shared the story at St. Benedict and discussed his legacy and his Rule. They introduced his biography by showing a common artist rendition of what he may have looked like including items that described his life.
St. Benedict holds in one hand a book representing his most important contribution – The Rule of Benedict, the foundation of many religious orders’ guidelines and still used today. His other hand grips a shepherd staff, symbol of his pastoral role for many who followed him.
Most portraits and statues of Benedict include a raven, sometimes with a piece of bread in the bird’s mouth. Legend tells that Benedict tried to revive a group of monks known to be lax and careless. They did not want to be reformed and decided to get rid of Benedict by poisoning him. God sent a raven to snatch the poisoned bread before he could eat it and flew away with the danger in its beak.
What an interesting way to learn the story of this historical figure – by studying the art representing his life.
The sisters then had each of us reflect on our own life. “What symbols would the artist paint around you to represent your life?” Quite a question to ponder.
Here’s what I chose:
- I love books – God’s word, the wisdom of other writers on spiritual journeys and the history and meaning behind various words we use. I had to be holding a book.
- A feather quill – I love to write and am inspired by the ancient wisdom writers so my instrument to communicate needed to be an older style quill pen.
- A tree – I have long loved the image of a tree with deep roots nourished by God and branches reaching out in praise and service. I love how the trunk connects the two ends, both nurturing and supporting each other.
The experience of this reflection haunted me as I wonder if I am living out this legacy in my actions and behaviors. I pray I do and I hope I grow more into this image.
I encourage you to ponder this question. This reflective experience is well worth the time.
What symbols would the artist paint around you to represent your life?
Hi Jean! Oh my gosh, this is a fabulous question. I love it!! Of course, my smarty pants answer would be coffee and a glass of wine (which really does describe me!), but I think I’ll have to mull this over a bit. I wonder if I’d want things around me that I WISH I was, but not who I am. Hmmm. Lots to think about…
I was invited to a fund raising brunch with Joan Chittister in a few weeks. I am beside myself!! I am allowed to bring books to have signed. Any requests from you? I would be happy to order a book for you and send it to you signed if you’d like. Send me an email!
Blessings,
Ceil
you are so sweet about Joan Chittiseter. I am jealous. will email you in a minute.
interesting question isn’t it? Made me more clear about that I did want my life to say. I know the symbols mean something to me but not sure if others, like my family would realize them. I too think a cup of coffee and glass of wine would be great. LOL have a great weekend.