A favorite of mine . . .

I have grown up with this picture over my mantle.

Honestly, I mostly took it for granted and ignored it. Certainly I studied it once or twice but never really made an effort to consider it, understand the story behind it. I did learn early on it was George Washington but where and why he was praying was not even a question.

Later, at GWU, I learned about the man and the circumstances that inspired the painting. Then later I had the opportunity to see the original - that did it - I absolutely love the painting.

If you have not seen the original, the first thing you need to know it is huge, almost life size. That is incredible considering the detail. Oh! and the detail! I kid you not . . . it is like 3D! The framed copy just doesn't capture it. It feels like you are in the woods with General Washington. Its almost like you are a soldier out to gather wood for a fire and accidentally stumble across your commander in prayer.

Seriously cool! It now hangs in my home. . .