I’ve often heard it said that with age comes the wisdom to welcome those things you cannot change with a serene
acceptance.
To me, parenthood offers a wonderful opportunity to learn the lesson of inner serenity. Naturally, I’ve
loved my four beautiful daughters since they were babies; enjoyed immensely my role as protective dad. But now
they are growing toward independence; my oldest girl, Merritt, has just gone off to college. I’ve learned to accept
their inevitable voyage toward maturity, and to greet their accomplishments and even their occasional difficult
personal lessons with pride.
Serenity Cove, featuring a lighthouse inspired by Marblehead Light on Lake Erie, celebrates the guidance my faith
offers as I face life’s transitions. For me, the four boats sailing toward the horizon symbolize the life journey of my four daughters as they grow into adulthood.
In nature, times of change are often the most brilliantly colored. The transition of sunset paints the fading hues of autumn with a heavenly radiance; in this, the still waters of Serenity Cove reflect the glory of earth and sky.
The lighthouse is not just a beacon of hope and symbol of faith; it is also a cozy family cottage. The gazebo and lawn furniture suggest the comfortable life lived within this safe haven.
Though this cottage doesn't exist anywhere but in my painting, I think for many of us it represents an ideal seaside getaway. Of course, I had to paint the scene at sunset. After all, what would a seaside cottage be without a beautiful sunset to watch?