Frances Carleton #7 - in response to ‘The Vale of Rest’ by John Everett Millais

Susan sits on the growing mound of moist soil as Sister Immaculatar digs.  Her skin cooling as the sun dips behind the buildings behind her.  On the second floor her tiny room with a wooden frame bad, nightstand with just one book and a candle beckons her.  The air heavy with autumn damp, the solemnity of the place, and the decision she has been wrestling with.  Does she stay with the church?
In recent weeks she has spent more time beyond the walls.  Walking in the vale, enjoying the space.  Her aloneness but never lonely.  She is never alone in the confines of the convent, with no doors, she even bathes with her sisters, anonymous.  The burden of being Sister Mary weighs on her shoulders.  The graves behind her show her life could be more.  Wife, Mother, Grandmother.  Be loved in return.