Picturing Steadfastness
A Visual Reflection on Time and Rituals
The word "steadfast" has been on my mind this week, and these photographs capture something I find difficult to express in writing. Several years ago, I noticed these well-worn missals on Christmas day. They resonated deeply as if they were calling out to me.
My mind wandered, formulating plans to photograph them after mass ended. Several stained glass windows lined both sides of the church creating a diffused light source. The pews made of dark wood provided the perfect backdrop for the missals.
The curling, weathered pages made me think of the parishioners holding them as they prayed and sang. I reflected on the passage of time and the steadfastness of this ritual. All of these elements profoundly touched me.
A quiet strength… the beauty of resilience.
I'm at a loss for words but I hope I’ve conveyed an emotional depth through these modest still lifes.
I invite you, dear ones, to add your own words if something resonated with you. Share a quote, phrase, poem, or haiku, perhaps? All are welcome! As always, let’s meet each other in the comments section below.
See you all next Sunday!
ANOTHER WAY TO SUPPORT SUNDAYS WITH STELLA
Great news, dear ones! I've listened to your requests and created a support page on my website. Now you can contribute to 'Sundays with Stella' in any amount using your credit card, PayPal, or Venmo. Your generosity is truly appreciated!
These are so beautiful, Stella! As I visited each image in turn, my eyes actually teared up a bit, and I thought, “A life well-worn…”💕
Love this Stella…
So here is a quote:
There are moments in life, so monumental and still, that the memory can never be retrieved without a catch to the throat or an interruption to the beat of the heart.
-Sarah Winman