Ronnie Boi

Here's a different take on American Exceptionalism that the one offered by Mayor Soft Hands. “The Prayer at Valley Forge” by Arnold Friberg (1975) It shows General George Washington kneeling in the snow, praying during the brutal winter of 1777–78 — when the Continental Army’s survival was in question. Friberg painted this as personal gift to America for the 1976 Bicentennial. From childhood, he idolized Washington (“the hero brave and true”) and he said he felt a deep calling to remind people of the faith, humility, and perseverance that helped birth this nation. He even said he felt “a tap on the shoulder” as if he’d been selected to paint it. Friberg went all-in on accuracy. He spent two years perfecting every detail, from the snow texture to the sweat on Washington’s knuckles The result is this powerful image of a leader on his knees seeking divine strength when everything was on the line. This painting shows that in the darkest winter,, prayer and perseverance can turn the tide. It is a reminder that America’s story includes moments of profound faith and humility. None of that humility that makes America great was on display today in New York City. However the type of unearned hubris intended to divide was full on - and it lectured the nation while sitting backwards at Washington's own desk about....of all things -- exceptionalism.