"The prickly pear cactus in the fruit basket represents the journey of Mary and Joseph through the barren land from Nazareth to Bethlehem because of the pending census, and the Holy Family's eventual escape to Egypt from Herod after Christ was born. Also, today the Israeli natives are called 'sabra' named for the prickly pear cactus-sweet inside but protected by sharp thorns. There are dates and figs common to the country among the sweet fruits brought by the little girl as a gift to the Blessed Family. I am portraying children in this painting to express the affinity Jesus had for them. 'Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them. Anyone who will not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will not enter it" (Luke 18:16-17). "There are twelve flames in the image that represent the twelve Apostles (or the twelve tribes of Israel). The fleece the baby Jesus is resting on symbolizes the sacrifice He ultimately makes for us. There's a strong triangular shape of the image that's topped off by the dove, and there is a dove in the sky of my painting, The Celebration. It signifies the Holy Spirit. (I will continue to place a dove in all my pieces). The design of this picture creates an arrow-type shape, leading the viewer's eye upwards to our next Christmas project of The Heavenly Hosts. There's probably even more symbolism in this image, but I'll leave that up to my collectors to experience. This has been my personal experience. What is most incredible to me is the fact that none of the symbolic elements I just described were planned! I never had any specific intention to convey this imagery other than to make a beautiful composition depicting the birth of Christ. Once again God has revealed himself to me as well as to all of us when we open ourselves up to Him. How awesomely wonderful it is to experience this beautiful miracle!" ...............................................-- Tom duBois "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." .....................................................-- Luke 2:7