This painting is one of the most famous creations of French Impressionist, Gustave Caillebotte (1848-1894). The proper couple in the foreground and the stunning details and colors of the background are all delicately placed in informal balance with a green lamppost holding the center. Our eyes race across this work in several directions as we try to take in this beautiful, unique scene. I most love the wheels in the mid-ground. This is a large work – 7 feet by 9 feet. It is part of the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

This painting seems a call to looking back, remembering, and appreciating the less than sunny times of the past year. We have moved through a storm and now in our country can fold our umbrellas and take off our masks in most settings as we pray for our children to also be protected. Our struggle to believe in sunshine and medical progress for our sisters and brothers around our world continues in our minds and hearts. This struggle could be named hope. Emily Dickinson wrote:

“Hope” is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul

And sings the tune without the words

And never stops – at all.”

May this painted scene and Dickinson’s familiar proclamation be with us each day along with our prayers of gratitude, trust and hope that never stops – at all.

In gratitude, faith, and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church