William Leighton Leitch 1843 - 1847

This is a photograph by Hill and Adamson, depicting William Leighton Leitch. Notice the rosary beads clutched in his hands; more than a mere counting tool for prayers, they are a symbol deeply embedded in the human psyche. The rosary, with its rhythmic repetition, echoes the ancient use of beads for meditation found across cultures, from Buddhist malas to Islamic tasbihs. This gesture of holding beads transcends religious boundaries, tapping into a universal human need for solace and order. The act of fingering the beads becomes a tactile anchor, offering a sense of grounding and continuity. The simple act speaks volumes about the emotional weight carried across centuries. Like the recurring motifs in dreams, the rosary resurfaces, a testament to our shared past and enduring quest for meaning.