True Masterpieces

When one stands before the "monument" of a true master in any art form... one comes to realize the vast difference in skill between that work and the efforts one produces ... even within a full life time of impassioned study and commitment. That is why these creators are recognized as "masters". They are visionaries whose works transcend the average... and that form the engine which drives and fuels creation for the generations who follow in their particular discipline.

When I visited the Ufizzi Gallery in Florence and for the first time came face to face face with Michelangelo's monumental marble "David"... I was simply overwhelmed... and wept openly at its utter beauty and magnificence. It was one of the great Epiphany moments in my entire life, one which forever changed me as a person... and as an artist. Standing below that 17.5 meter massive nude figure... perfect in every perspective and detail I recognized the difference that his passion and genius which separated him from most other sculptors either in the past or the present.

It clearly demonstrated to me that such a gift separates one man from all others... though at the same time it can inspire one to reach beyond one's own insignificance to become better. And his example has surely done that in Western Art. My initial feeling was inadequacy.... the feeling that I was "playing with crayons" by comparison.The truth be told, I still am... and always will be! What I drew from the experience was the opportunity to study and to learn from seeing his work... and then to set it aside without a need to feel inferior in any way. I decided then and there ... to devote the remainder of my life to realistically develop my own abilities to my utmost. And I believe that I have done so.

You see... my true "masterpieces" that I shall leave to the world when my time has run out... are my five children. Each is unique and gifted in their own way... and imperfect in others. These five individuals carry the best of me forward into a future that I shall never see... much less live in. I would wager that their accomplishments might well outweigh my own... and I would be pleased and feel blessed... if that were so. Just to set the record straight... I have no immediate plans to leave earth any too soon. These are simply my observations and joyous feelings tonight having just received some blessed news today.

At 12:15 pm today... Friday, February 28th 2014... our Sherman Family welcomes its newest family addition. Enter... Malcolm (Wee Mac) Justin Michael Sherman to be the gift to his over joyous parents, my first son Andrew and his wife Melissa... and my fifth grandchild. We have all been anxiously awaiting this moment and we share in the joy and happiness that this arrival brings. We promise to love ... support and care for him... as we have done so for you.

Like my comin' home duds Guys?... My dad came home in these thirty two years ago. Cool
... EH?

"Mission Control... The Eagle has landed... one "small step" for Mankind!!!

Rich blessings of Joy... Health and Happiness from us to you three!


We are deeply... and richly blessed for your safe arrival Mac! Can't wait to pass you around and actually feel your presence... as pass you about and admire you!

All our love ALWAYS!

Dad and Deb
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