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She Who Drew Water
May Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Sculptures”
When will our water flow safe?
By the Salzach River in Salzburg, there’s this fountain: a bronze woman standing on carved stone, holding out a bowl with water gently pouring from it. I liked it so much when I passed by that I stopped for a while and quickly took a photo. I wasn’t even thirsty, and my water bottle was already full. But if it had had some space, I would’ve filled it.
The shape is graceful, but not grand or famous-looking, so I guess people walk past it easily. Especially the locals, they probably hardly notice it anymore (just my guess).
For me, when I looked at her, I thought of my mother. A woman who lives fully in this modern world, but with all her traditional choices. She lives simply, loves her children deeply, and is always pouring herself out in quiet.
And I thought of the women in Bible stories who are connected to wells and water. In movies, they’re often shown with clay jars balanced on their heads or resting on their hips. They always seemed to carry stories with them. There’s Rebekah, who drew water for Abraham’s servant when he was searching for a wife for Isaac. She drew water not only for him but also for his camels (how kind; and how strong!). Rachel met Jacob. Zipporah met…
