Evan was born on December 11th, late at night on the vigil of Our Lady of Guadalupe. I was completely unaware Marian titles and apparitions at the time. I just wanted him to be born as soon as possible.

I know how strange this seems to some of our non-Catholic friends and family, but we find much consolation in knowing that Jesus’ own mother is our mother too and that she has preceded us to Heaven where she prays for us, leading us always closer to Jesus.

A few days after Evan’s funeral, as I awoke, I saw Our Lady of Guadalupe wrapping her mantle around Evan. I don’t know whether to call it a dream or a vision and I couldn’t tell if she was in the river or on the river. I just knew she was there with our son and the scene was peaceful.

I wanted to draw a picture of what I’d seen or dreamt, but quickly became frustrated at my lack of ability. I sent Xhiv my poor attempts along with my idea of making it resemble a Pieta and she bravely and kindly agreed to take on the project.

The other night she texted me the finished painting and I love how it turned out. The foliage, rocks, and water are like those in a photo we have of the place where rescuers found Evan’s body.

Xhiv is true to her unique style while skillfully depicting her brother at rest in Mary’s arms. I’m undone at the beauty of it.

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When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.

John 19:26 & 27