Nobody does it alone

“Two brothers, Albrecht and Albert Durer, lived in a small village near Nuremberg, Germany, in the late fifteenth century. The Durer family was poor and had eighteen children. The father, a goldsmith, worked eighteen-hour days in his constant struggle to put food on the table for his large family. The two oldest sons, Albert and Albrecht, had a dream. They both wanted to pursuer their talent for art. To fulfill their dream, they’d study at the Art Academy in Nuremburg. The two boys made a pact. They’d toss a coin, and the loser would labor in the local coalmines, and with his earnings, he’s pay for his brother to attend the academy. Four years later, after finishing his art studies, it would then be the winners’ turn to support his brother so he could study at the academy. Albrecht won the toss and went to Nuremburg to become an artist. Meanwhile, Albert went down into the hazardous mines.”

“At the art academy, Albrecht was immediately recognized as a gifted artist. Upon his graduation, he was paid big fees for his commissioned works. His family held a festive dinner to celebrate his graduation on the lawn of their meager home. Albrecht made a toast to Albert: ‘This is for you, dear brother, because you sacrificed for me and worked in the mines. Now it’s my turn to take care of you, and you shall pursuer your dream. It is your turn to attend the art academy.’

“Albert stood up and with tears streaming down his cheeks, he said, ‘I am so proud and happy for you, my brother, but I am afraid it is too late for me. All my fingers are broken, twisted, bent, and arthritic. As you can see, I can’t even return your toast because I cant pick up this glass, let alone a paint brush.’

“Albrecht Durer became one of the most famous artists of his time, and today his work appears in museums all over the world. As a tribute to his brother, he painted his brother’s busted hands with palms together and thin fingers extended skyward. He called his drawing, Hands. The great masterpiece has since been renamed, The Praying Hands. Millions of reproductions have been distributed around the world, and I’m sure you’re familiar with this famous work of art. The next time you see a copy, think about the story behind it and remember, ‘Nobody makes it alone.’”

Who has sacrificed for you? Take a moment today to write them a thank you note, give them a call or live your life in such a way as to honor them!