Mary Stevenson Cassatt (1844-1926) was an American painter who pursued her art career within the objections of her parents who were both in finance. Mary pursued her art career within the prejudice and sexism of the art world of her time. She pursued it within the limitations placed on the education of women at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. Mary boldly dropped out of school and went to France to learn on her own and from other artists. She made a conscious choice to pursue her career, to not marry or have children and on a somewhat ironic note, she is best known for her paintings of women and their children.

In this beautiful composition done from a gentle palette of soft and deep colors, we are invited into the peace of a moment under sail. The central focus of mother and child is bathed in light and placid connection. Somehow Mary Cassatt painted those times when a baby relaxes deeply in familiar arms. I wish us all times of this baby’s relaxation as the wind and world shift and our courses change. A small boat, a gentle wind, calm waters, God’s breath and our own.  May it be so and amen.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church