Women bear the brunt of suffering in many societies. The material welfare of family often falls to the women who carry water from wells sometimes over long distances. Yet little is said about this situation. Consider what happens in more affluent societies if a pipe bursts or there is a contamination of supply. Relief is provided at short notice yet the inconvenience is talked about everywhere. As Jesus meets his mother we recall the place of women in some societies today. We remember in particular women who bury children who have died from preventable disease and famine. I imagine the crushing pain of not being able to provide for your own. Lord, keep me mindful of the unseen cross of others.