“Today, in a quiet grove at Valley Forge, there is an heroic-sized monument to Washington. He is depicted not astride a charging horse nor overlooking a battlefield of glory, but kneeling in humble prayer, calling upon the God of Heaven for divine help. To gaze upon the statue prompts the mind to remember the oft-heard expression, ‘A man never stands taller than when upon his knees.

“Men and women of integrity, character, and purpose have ever recognized a power higher than themselves and have sought through prayer to be guided by that power. Such has it ever been. So shall it ever be.” (Thomas S. Monson, Ensign, May 1978, “The Prayer of Faith”).

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Years ago I went with my son Alex on a field trip to the Utah State Capitol. We were able to view the above painting by Arnold Friberg, “Prayer at Valley Forge”.

What a beautiful painting.

As we came out of the room where the painting was displayed, standing there talking to people was Arnold Friberg. I was so excited, and we came closer to listen to what he was telling those standing around him.

He was talking about how when he was painting General Washington’s hands, the traditional way to depict praying hands was with the palms together, the fingers extended, and the hands flat against each other. He said he wanted to show the earnest feeling General Washington must was have felt, by putting the hands together with the fingers interlocked and kind of clenched, almost white knuckled. Wow, it changed the way I will view that painting forever! Mr. Friberg was a very nice man, and it was an experience I will never forget.

I am so grateful for George Washington. For his conviction and determination. What a great patriot! I am even more grateful for a loving Father in Heaven who directed the founding leaders of our great nation! God Bless America!