Jessica Gazzola

Icons are images that invite contemplation; to the keen observer they reflect divinity.  Certain strains of Christianity have used icons of saints or biblical scenes for inspiration and education.  It’s in the spirit of this tradition that I start this series, “Today’s icon.”  We all have images hanging on our walls, saved in our phones, or burned into our memories of a face, a place, or a moment that points to a greater reality, even if it’s just our greater reality.  Here’s my first icon…

Amos the Undeterred

Born spring 2014, this portrait of spiritual stamina is a young saint.  There are various pieces of this icon that invite the viewer into his inspiring life.

Observe the shiner developing under his left eye – mark of an unfortunate step ladder incident or symbol of endurance?  I believe it points to the way he never lets life (or his older sister and brother) beat him down.  There’s always another ladder to climb, and, yes, it may fall on you, but that’s no reason not to try again!  Never a victim, he comes out standing.

Note spaghetti sauce smeared on face and shirt (and, implied, back of head).  Life is impermanent and spaghetti today may not mean spaghetti tomorrow.  Live life in the moment!  This young soul is not burdened by guilt from the past or anxiety about the future.  He lives in the NOW!  (Apparently this is also a Buddhist icon… I can see a resemblance.)

The blur of the left hand suggests action, specifically clapping.  Amos cheers for himself because he knows his true nature – and it is awesome.  There is no task too mundane that doesn’t deserve applause because each new breath is a miracle, an achievement.  He is a mirror to others reminding us all of our own awesomeness.  He has been reported to clap for dad when he pees, sister when she sings “Let it Go!,” brother when he hits sister with a sword, and mom when she carries five bags of groceries and only breaks two eggs.

What do you see in this icon?

If you have an icon you wish to share, please post it on my facebook page with the hash-tag #todaysicon.  I’ll collect the images and stories to create a collage of icons to be featured on the page, Today’s Icon.

Holiness is everywhere!