Anna
2003, acrylic on canvas (48” x 48”)

From my mother I learned about God the Creator ofall living things, a power to hehold, the strength that guides us, the Father of Jesus who died on the cross for our sins. A loving God!

From the teachings in religion class I learned that God sees everything, that He keeps a record of my bad behaviour. I leaned that He keeps a record of all my sins in a Big Bok and when I die, I will see Him only then because He will be my judge. Then He will give me my just reward...be it heaven or hell. Some Good God! Merciful?

I learned that everything that happens inthe world is the work of God. He is the one who deals good things to some; but also who brings down His powerful hand on some of us and punishes us with sickness, disease, handicaps,hunger, pain, etc. So is this from God or from the greed of man?

I saw God in the newborn who fought for survival against all odds. I met God in the persons I live with, the ones who give me courage, hope, joy, respect and faith in myself. I felt God in the hands of the medical peronannel who nursed me back to health. I heard God inthe laughter of children in music, in the wind among the trees. I saw God in the trees, flowers, oceans, and in all of nature’s beauty, even storms. I felt God in the outstretched hand of the pandhandler who invited me to share. I discovered God in the eyes of the prostitute, when I smiled at her, she cam close enough for me to open my arms and hug her. I met God when I forgot myself and got lost in all the things around me. I believe in God because it is only for His love, His grace and greatness that I am who I am and where I am.