Lady in Gold and America's Heroes

The Woman in Gold and America’s Heroes

The movie The Woman in Gold is excellent.  We were very glad we went, and as my wife and I drove home, we talked about the wonder of the art, evil that hate can bring and the wonder of America where justice for one is justice for all.  My favorite moment was when, speaking before the Supreme Court, the young lawyer, Randol Schoenberg, says of Mrs. Altman: “She came to America to find peace – let’s give her justice too.”

It was gratifying to know that the picture sold for 135 million dollars, but we should contemplate how much freedom and justice are worth.

A few weeks ago, a friend of mine, an American Soldier who has spent years of his life defending truth and justice, said he would like to commission me to paint a picture of his former commanding officer.   I accepted, perhaps tempted beyond my abilities by the chance of pay.  It took me several weeks to produce something I was satisfied with.

We got home from the movie and I called my friend.  He came over and graciously accepted the watercolor painting.  I suggested we discuss payment.  I told him I had spoken with my daughter-in-law about what she charged for her paintings and that she often works out swaps – a dentist gets his daughter painted in exchange for fixing my grandchildren’s teeth.   So I told my friend that I would work out such a deal with him.  I told him I would trade my efforts for the freedom and safety of my family and friends.  I also told him that if anyone ever asked what he paid for the painting he could truthfully say it was priceless. 

Here’s the picture.