Mary at the Cross

Mater Dolorosa (The Virgin Mary Mourning), 1897. Georges-Daniel de Monfreid (French, 1856–1929). Painted plaster and wood; framed: 73.7 x 59.1 x 17.8 cm (29 x 23 1/4 x 7 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, John L. Severance Fund 2002.54

Mary at the Cross

[Jesus] said to [Mary], “Dear woman, here is your son.” And he said to this disciple, “Here is your mother.” - John 19:26

I am not old. A bewildered mother

since conception who stored up

each moment. Now I will recall

the way you reached for me, a babe,

and only see your outstretched arms.

Son, do not abandon me—every hour

has been mystery, how my Lord suckled

at my breast, relied on me to learn

the ways of men. Standing here watching

you die is my own death. I am afraid.

Yet even now, you look down and know

my thoughts—who will lead me through this,

on whom can I depend? By the power

of locked knees and women I stand,

resigned and resolute. I will soon be without

my son, my Lord. Dear woman, here is your son.