Just as Norman Rockwell was inspired by President Franklin Roosevelt’s “Four Freedoms” speech, I find myself to be inspired by Rockwell’s paintings. The Four Freedoms characterized in the speech, as well as the paintings, are: Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Religion, Freedom from Fear, and Freedom from Want. These paintings were, and still are, very popular with the American public because of the relevance we have with them and the appreciation that we have for these freedoms. When looking at the paintings, it is much like looking into a mirror of the American way of life. You are likely to see a friend, family member, or even yourself within one of his realistic characters. The painting that I find myself most drawn to is that of “Freedom from Fear.”
The main reason that I am attracted to this particular Rockwell painting is that there are children. In a painting that has the word “fear” in the title; it can really shake you up to see children. However, because Rockwell is depicting the freedom we have from fear rather than fear itself, the viewer is able to feel peace instead of fear for these children. I will say that this is the emotion that I first felt when looking at this picture, however, this feeling was fleeting as I came to the realization of the meaning behind this painting. While these children are being lovingly tucked into a warm bed under a safe roof, there are multiple other children in other parts of the world who have a different fate.
While situations have changed and it has been over half of a century since these paintings were created, I still find myself in pain and awe over the weight that this painting carries. I am the oldest child in my family, have been a nanny for the same family for eight years, and have worked at a daycare. I love children and appreciate the talents, ideas, and love that they each contribute to our world. My brother and sister have made me a stronger person and a leader because of the pressure of knowing that I am looked up to. The family that I nanny for has three creative children who challenge me and enrich my life. The years of working at a daycare taught me patience, the ability to multi-task, and the importance of simply listening and paying attention. I am thankful that the parents in this picture have the privilege of enjoying all of these experiences with their children. I feel fearful for parents that are not in this envious position.
