Behold Thy Son

Christ's mother, Mary, held many things in her heart. I can't imagine her anquish as her son suffered for all mankind. She was his mother but she could not lighten His burden. I don't know if knowing His fate would have made it any easier. And then, as His mortal life was coming to an end, He did something for her. He asked his friend, John, to take care of her. And then, it was done.

Mary sits on the ground under the brach of a dogwood, a symbol of crucifixion. Next to her is a Lily, symbolizing the reflection of pure light and of the pure soul's resurrection. Also, there is Mary's Tear, or Lilly of the Valley, said to have sprung from her tears at the foot of the cross. The violets and straeberries represent the humility of Mary.

At the base of the cross I wanted Passion Flower. It is said that in the Passion Flower, God portrayed the suffereing of Christ. It is a powerful symbol of Christ's faith and suffering.