I invite you to look first at the stunning arrangement of shapes and colors Rivera shares here. Notice how the space is filled with unique informal balance. Notice the warm colors repeated and the powerful white slanted from side to side. This is a remarkable composition by a master artist.

Then I invite you into the plight of this man who cannot stand under the weight of a basket he must carry for his livelihood. Look at his fingers splayed to push and his back knee almost off the ground. Can you feel this effort? Notice the woman clothed in color and shadow trying to help him get up and on his way, to sacrifice himself – his back, his legs, his shoulders – for yet another day.

This painting is a poignant prayer for the essential workers among us, for all who are harmed under the heavy weight of thankless jobs that make our lives possible, convenient, and light. In these pandemic days so many workers are risking even more for us. Are we willing to quietly participate in this bargain?

May our prayers of the people always include the workers and may this image bring all of us to our knees for them.

In faith and hope,
Sandy Prouty