“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” - John 15:13

Many celebrate Memorial Day weekend as a marker of the beginning of summer. The 4th of July gets everyone out in their red, white & blue.
 
I like barbecues and 3-day weekends as much as the next guy, but I’d like to take a moment to remember those who have died while courageously serving our country.
 
A time to remember more than 1 million people who have paid the ultimate sacrifice defending the United States of America.
 
I wanted to honor all soldiers with a painting. Last week, I was painting at Mission Fine Art Gallery when a man came to look around. When he saw my painting, he stopped, and with thoughtful curiosity, asked what I was trying to say.

I thought that was a very interesting question... I knew I was drawn to the image, but I hadn’t actually articulated my feelings about why.
 
As we stood there in front of my painting in progress, I began to think out loud. 

The combination of the injured soldier, the little boy pushing the wheelchair, and the school bus told a story. To me, it seemed to represent getting back to everyday life. It’s about what happens after the homecoming.
 
The enthusiasm of the boy represented hope, connection, and family. The erect posture of the soldier showed strength and proud determination. The school bus made me think of working towards a bright future.

I'm curious to know what you think this painting is trying to say.

PS A friend of mine started a nonprofit corporation called Carepossible a few years ago. Their mission is to provide mental health care and addiction treatment for low income and military families. Click here if you want to learn how you can support healing for soldiers exposed to stress and trauma.

Jennifer Mathews Fine Art
Oil Paintings of Life in Landscape
(949) 689-0625
http://www.JMathewsFineArt.com