Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Saturday, October 28, 2006
MOTHER
The embodiment of compassion,
Transformed in Physical form,
Comprises of selfless love and affection,
Ability to appreciate,
Encourage in times of Failures
Capacity to Forgive,
Acceptance even there are faults,
Always thinking of welfare of others,
Self Sacrifice for the happiness of others,
Provides motivation to acheive,
Correcting the faults,
Imbibing noble values..
Always laughing,
Eagerly hearing our pranks and jokes,
Caring for small small things evenafter when we grow old,
remind us of each and every things,
serving our needs with dedication,
providing solance when worrying
Giving enthusiasm by narratating incidents
But why God has taken you such hurrily,
Search for you,
In the crowded markets, streets and in the bazaars,
I could see faces in the crowds,
But desperately looking for your face,
Ofcourse I could find faces
but I couldnot
find a loving and charming face,
full of affection like yours,
Seeking your blessings from the Heavan, always.
A tribute to my beloved mother.
Transformed in Physical form,
Comprises of selfless love and affection,
Ability to appreciate,
Encourage in times of Failures
Capacity to Forgive,
Acceptance even there are faults,
Always thinking of welfare of others,
Self Sacrifice for the happiness of others,
Provides motivation to acheive,
Correcting the faults,
Imbibing noble values..
Always laughing,
Eagerly hearing our pranks and jokes,
Caring for small small things evenafter when we grow old,
remind us of each and every things,
serving our needs with dedication,
providing solance when worrying
Giving enthusiasm by narratating incidents
But why God has taken you such hurrily,
Search for you,
In the crowded markets, streets and in the bazaars,
I could see faces in the crowds,
But desperately looking for your face,
Ofcourse I could find faces
but I couldnot
find a loving and charming face,
full of affection like yours,
Seeking your blessings from the Heavan, always.
A tribute to my beloved mother.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
redefined !!!!
Classic Definitions & really cool meanings!
Marriage : It's an agreement in which a man loses his bachelor degree and a woman gains her master
Conference : The confusion of one man multiplied by the number present.
Compromise : The art of dividing a cake in such a way that everybody believes he got the biggest piece.
Dictionary : A place where divorce comes before marriage.
Conference Room : A place where everybody talks, nobody listens & everybody disagrees later on.
Ecstasy : A feeling when you feel you are going to feel a feeling you have never felt before.
Classic : A book which people praise, but do not read.
Smile : A curve that can set a lot of things straight.
Yawn : The only time some married men ever get to open their mouth.
Etc. : A sign to make others believe that you know more than you actually do.
Committee: Individuals who can do nothing individually and sitto decide that nothing can be done together.
Experience : The name men give to their mistakes.
Atom Bomb: An invention to end all inventions.
Diplomat : A person who tells you to go to hell in such a way that you actually look forward to the trip.
Optimist : A person who while falling from Eiffel Tower says in midway "See I am not injured yet."
Boss : Someone who is early when you are late and late when you are early.
Doctor : A person who kills your ills by pills, and kills you with his bills.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
nostalgic
This is in southern tip of India, Tamil Nadu, Famous statue of Tiruvalluvar, an incredible Tamil Poet, who wrote universally applicable tamil peom called Tirukkural.
This is one of the grand temple - Thanjavur Bragadeeswarar temple, a marvalous temple to visit. The sculptures are real treat to eyes.
Green fertile plans of tamil nadu
She shores in Tamil Nadu, fishing is an important industry in Tamil Nadu
Fertile plains and awaiting monsoon rains!!!! with blue cloud covers proclaiming anytime it may rain!!!
These pictures evokes a nostaligic feeling as these are pictures of Tamil Nadu, the place where I studied and spend my child hood to college days, Tamil Nadu is truely a place of rich diversity in terms of nature, Tamil Nadu encompasses sea and sea-shores, fertile plains, forests, and Hilly regions. Also have a beautiful waterfalls named Cuttralam, and Tamil nadu is the only state in India which is bestowed with the special phenomena of "North East Monsoon rains", wherein the state received more than 50% of the annual rain fall. Tamil Nadu stands apart in cultural diversity also. One can find plenty of temples with high rising Gopurams, some of the temples are unmatched in architectural splendours.. the devine and silence of the temples with wishpers of the bats is an experience by itself, and cannot be descriped and could only be experienced!!!! I received these snaps of Tamil nadu from a email. See it and enjoy
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
happy people
I came across this news survey which is quite interesting:- In which country people are most happy, take a look at the survey result, you may be amazed!!!
A recent study from Britain's University of Leicester examined a range of statistical data to devise a ranking of the world's happiest nations (http://images.businessweek.com/ss/06/10/happiest_countries)
No. 1: Denmark
Population: 5.5 million Life Expectancy: 77.8 years GDP Per Capita: $34,600
With a high standard of living, negligible poverty, and a broad range of public and social services, it's easy to see why Denmark tops the happiness map. There's a high level of education; public schools are top-quality and private ones are affordable. The low population gives the nation a strong sense of identity. And Denmark's physical beauty forms a great backdrop to daily life. The weather is a bit tough, though.
No. 2: Switzerland
Population: 7.5 millionLife Expectancy: 80.5 yearsGDP Per Capita: $32,300
Smack in the middle of Europe and surrounded by picture-postcard scenery, Switzerland ranks second among the world's happiest countries. It has a low crime rate, good infrastructure, and a wealth of outdoor activities, from skiing in the Alps to boating on Lake Geneva. Home to the International Red Cross, the World Health Organization, and parts of the U.N., it's not surprising that the Swiss devote a large portion of private and public money to health care -- spending an average of $3,445 per person. It's pretty peaceful, too: years of political neutrality have sheltered the Swiss from the conflicts of their neighbors.
No. 3: Austria
Population: 8.2 millionLife Expectancy: 79 yearsGDP Per Capita: $32,700
Another Alpine hotbed of happiness, Austria also boasts beautiful scenery and a surprisingly rich cultural scene. Like many of the world's happiest countries, it boasts a strong health-care system, as evidenced by the long average life expectancy of its citizens. Strict environmental regulations are starting to pay dividends, says Oskar Hinteregger, of the Austrian National Tourist Office. He credits the country's happy mood to its relaxed atmosphere, efficient public transport system, and general cleanliness. Austria does have some poverty, though: nearly 6%
No. 4: Iceland
Population: 300,000 Life Expectancy: 80 yearsGDP Per Capita: $35,600
There's more to Iceland than hot springs and Björk. The tiny country's extensive welfare system plays a big part in its citizens' happiness. The Icelandic government offers a broad range of services, such as generous housing subsidies, and with very little poverty, wealth is evenly distributed among Icelandic society. Literacy is high and unemployment, at 2.1%, is low.
No. 5: Bahamas
Population: 303,800Life Expectancy: 65.6 yearsGDP Per Capita: $20,200
Bahamanians know how to enjoy life. “Maybe it's our 'Bahama Mamas,' our sweet sea breeze, our conch salad, and fun loving people,” suggests Kendenique Campbell-Moss, a senior executive at the Bahamas Tourism Ministry. Although the poverty rate, at 9.3%, is relatively high, the beautiful weather and laid-back lifestyle keep Bahamas' citizens smiling. Campbell-Moss also reckons the fusion of African and European cultures, strong family values, and Christianity contribute to the happy vibe in the Caribbean country.
No. 6: Finland
Population: 5.2 millionLife Expectancy: 78.5 yearsGDP Per Capita: $30,900
It's dark and cold in the winter and has some of the highest taxes in Europe. But that doesn't get in the way of Finns' overall happiness. High quality medical care -- at little to no cost -- contributes to the country's high average life expectancy. The country's free educational system is one of the best, resulting in a 100% literacy rate. Poverty is rare; so too, is extreme wealth. “Our beloved government makes sure that taxes are high enough to prevent easy ways to riches,” says Jaakko Lehtonen, director-general of the Finnish Tourism Board. “Finns think a good salary is two cents higher than your neighbor's; it's enough to make you feel wealthy and subsequently, happy,” he says
No. 7: Sweden
Population: 9 millionLife Expectancy: 80.50 yearsGDP Per Capita: $29,800
Taxes are high and the winter is trying. But social equality, one of the best welfare systems in Europe, and a great work/life balance keep Swedes smiling. Parents get extensive maternity and paternity leave, and child care is heavily subsidized and available to all. Sweden also has unusually transparent government and a strong emphasis on ensuring the freedom and equality of its people. “Ordinary citizens in Sweden have the right to see the prime minister's official mail, and they often exercise that right,” notes Susanna Wallgren, of the Swedish Tourism Board.
No. 8: Bhutan
Population: 2.3 millionLife Expectancy: 55 yearsGDP Per Capita: $1,400
Here's a surprise: The small Asian nation of Bhutan ranks eighth in the world, despite relatively low life expectancy, a literacy rate of just 47%, and a very low GDP per capita. Why? Researchers credit an unusually strong sense of national identity. Plus, the country has beautiful scenery and a largely unspoiled culture, thanks to strict governmental limits on tourism, development, and immigration. Pretty counterintuitive, but Bhutan seems to have found a recipe for happiness.
No. 9: Brunei
Population: 380,000Life Expectancy: 75GDP Per Capita: $23,600
It helps to have oil. Wealthy and politically stable, Brunei's government plays a major role in its citizens' happiness. The same family has ruled the Southeast Asian nation for more than six centuries, providing free medical services and education. Even university-level education is paid for by the government, which also subsidizes rice and housing. That ensures virtually nonexistent poverty
No. 10: Canada
Population: 33 millionLife Expectancy: 80 yearsGDP Per Capita: $34,000
Canada may sometimes feel overshadowed by its giant neighbor to the south, but a strong sense of national identity and abundant natural beauty help make the sprawling and sparsely populated country one of the world's happiest. Canada also punches above its weight economically, with a huge $1.1 trillion GDP and per-capita that ranks among the world's highest. It also has strong health care and a low crime rate.
No. 11: Ireland
Population: 4 millionLife Expectancy: 77.7 yearsGDP Per Capita: $41,000
Once so poor that its citizens fled by the millions, the Celtic Tiger has enjoyed unprecedented economic growth over the past dozen years. Credit membership in the European Union and a can-do attitude has raised standards of living and even lured former immigrants back home. The excellent education system, open economy, and relaxed pace of life all contribute to the overall happiness of the Irish.
No. 12: Luxemburg
Population: 474,500Life Expectancy: 79 yearsGDP Per Capita: $55,600
Luxembourg's position proves that sometimes money can buy happiness. It has the highest GDP per capita in the world. And with great access to education, 100% of the population is literate. The people of Luxembourg should find comfort in their surroundings, too. Mercer Resource Human Consulting ranked the city-state as the safest in the world in 2005.
Do you envy to live in one of the top 10 happiest country?????
A recent study from Britain's University of Leicester examined a range of statistical data to devise a ranking of the world's happiest nations (http://images.businessweek.com/ss/06/10/happiest_countries)
No. 1: Denmark
Population: 5.5 million Life Expectancy: 77.8 years GDP Per Capita: $34,600
With a high standard of living, negligible poverty, and a broad range of public and social services, it's easy to see why Denmark tops the happiness map. There's a high level of education; public schools are top-quality and private ones are affordable. The low population gives the nation a strong sense of identity. And Denmark's physical beauty forms a great backdrop to daily life. The weather is a bit tough, though.
No. 2: Switzerland
Population: 7.5 millionLife Expectancy: 80.5 yearsGDP Per Capita: $32,300
Smack in the middle of Europe and surrounded by picture-postcard scenery, Switzerland ranks second among the world's happiest countries. It has a low crime rate, good infrastructure, and a wealth of outdoor activities, from skiing in the Alps to boating on Lake Geneva. Home to the International Red Cross, the World Health Organization, and parts of the U.N., it's not surprising that the Swiss devote a large portion of private and public money to health care -- spending an average of $3,445 per person. It's pretty peaceful, too: years of political neutrality have sheltered the Swiss from the conflicts of their neighbors.
No. 3: Austria
Population: 8.2 millionLife Expectancy: 79 yearsGDP Per Capita: $32,700
Another Alpine hotbed of happiness, Austria also boasts beautiful scenery and a surprisingly rich cultural scene. Like many of the world's happiest countries, it boasts a strong health-care system, as evidenced by the long average life expectancy of its citizens. Strict environmental regulations are starting to pay dividends, says Oskar Hinteregger, of the Austrian National Tourist Office. He credits the country's happy mood to its relaxed atmosphere, efficient public transport system, and general cleanliness. Austria does have some poverty, though: nearly 6%
No. 4: Iceland
Population: 300,000 Life Expectancy: 80 yearsGDP Per Capita: $35,600
There's more to Iceland than hot springs and Björk. The tiny country's extensive welfare system plays a big part in its citizens' happiness. The Icelandic government offers a broad range of services, such as generous housing subsidies, and with very little poverty, wealth is evenly distributed among Icelandic society. Literacy is high and unemployment, at 2.1%, is low.
No. 5: Bahamas
Population: 303,800Life Expectancy: 65.6 yearsGDP Per Capita: $20,200
Bahamanians know how to enjoy life. “Maybe it's our 'Bahama Mamas,' our sweet sea breeze, our conch salad, and fun loving people,” suggests Kendenique Campbell-Moss, a senior executive at the Bahamas Tourism Ministry. Although the poverty rate, at 9.3%, is relatively high, the beautiful weather and laid-back lifestyle keep Bahamas' citizens smiling. Campbell-Moss also reckons the fusion of African and European cultures, strong family values, and Christianity contribute to the happy vibe in the Caribbean country.
No. 6: Finland
Population: 5.2 millionLife Expectancy: 78.5 yearsGDP Per Capita: $30,900
It's dark and cold in the winter and has some of the highest taxes in Europe. But that doesn't get in the way of Finns' overall happiness. High quality medical care -- at little to no cost -- contributes to the country's high average life expectancy. The country's free educational system is one of the best, resulting in a 100% literacy rate. Poverty is rare; so too, is extreme wealth. “Our beloved government makes sure that taxes are high enough to prevent easy ways to riches,” says Jaakko Lehtonen, director-general of the Finnish Tourism Board. “Finns think a good salary is two cents higher than your neighbor's; it's enough to make you feel wealthy and subsequently, happy,” he says
No. 7: Sweden
Population: 9 millionLife Expectancy: 80.50 yearsGDP Per Capita: $29,800
Taxes are high and the winter is trying. But social equality, one of the best welfare systems in Europe, and a great work/life balance keep Swedes smiling. Parents get extensive maternity and paternity leave, and child care is heavily subsidized and available to all. Sweden also has unusually transparent government and a strong emphasis on ensuring the freedom and equality of its people. “Ordinary citizens in Sweden have the right to see the prime minister's official mail, and they often exercise that right,” notes Susanna Wallgren, of the Swedish Tourism Board.
No. 8: Bhutan
Population: 2.3 millionLife Expectancy: 55 yearsGDP Per Capita: $1,400
Here's a surprise: The small Asian nation of Bhutan ranks eighth in the world, despite relatively low life expectancy, a literacy rate of just 47%, and a very low GDP per capita. Why? Researchers credit an unusually strong sense of national identity. Plus, the country has beautiful scenery and a largely unspoiled culture, thanks to strict governmental limits on tourism, development, and immigration. Pretty counterintuitive, but Bhutan seems to have found a recipe for happiness.
No. 9: Brunei
Population: 380,000Life Expectancy: 75GDP Per Capita: $23,600
It helps to have oil. Wealthy and politically stable, Brunei's government plays a major role in its citizens' happiness. The same family has ruled the Southeast Asian nation for more than six centuries, providing free medical services and education. Even university-level education is paid for by the government, which also subsidizes rice and housing. That ensures virtually nonexistent poverty
No. 10: Canada
Population: 33 millionLife Expectancy: 80 yearsGDP Per Capita: $34,000
Canada may sometimes feel overshadowed by its giant neighbor to the south, but a strong sense of national identity and abundant natural beauty help make the sprawling and sparsely populated country one of the world's happiest. Canada also punches above its weight economically, with a huge $1.1 trillion GDP and per-capita that ranks among the world's highest. It also has strong health care and a low crime rate.
No. 11: Ireland
Population: 4 millionLife Expectancy: 77.7 yearsGDP Per Capita: $41,000
Once so poor that its citizens fled by the millions, the Celtic Tiger has enjoyed unprecedented economic growth over the past dozen years. Credit membership in the European Union and a can-do attitude has raised standards of living and even lured former immigrants back home. The excellent education system, open economy, and relaxed pace of life all contribute to the overall happiness of the Irish.
No. 12: Luxemburg
Population: 474,500Life Expectancy: 79 yearsGDP Per Capita: $55,600
Luxembourg's position proves that sometimes money can buy happiness. It has the highest GDP per capita in the world. And with great access to education, 100% of the population is literate. The people of Luxembourg should find comfort in their surroundings, too. Mercer Resource Human Consulting ranked the city-state as the safest in the world in 2005.
Do you envy to live in one of the top 10 happiest country?????
gift of nature
I had received these photos by email, which made me to think for a vacation.., oh but it is not possible, hence atleast by seeing these photos we may feel like visiting those exotic places.... enjoy the nature!!!
creativity
Amazing creativity from waste garbages... so this reinforces if you have creative mind you can convert even the unwanted and waste items into a beautiful art pieces..... wonderful isnt.!!!!
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Life lessons
This is one of the best presentation , download by following the link
http://rapidshare.de/files/36447845/Life.pps.html
Follow the values and get benefitted in life.
http://rapidshare.de/files/36447845/Life.pps.html
Follow the values and get benefitted in life.
Monday, October 09, 2006
lovers
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Love - to be loved
Nice Story from China:- A long time ago in China, a girl named Li-Li got married &Went to live with her husband and mother-in-law. In a very short time, Li-Li found that she couldn't get along with her mother-in-law at all.
Their personalities were very different, and Li-Li was angered by Many of her mother-in-law' s habits. In addition, she criticized Li-Li Constantly . Days passed and weeks passed. Li-Li and her mother-in-law Never stopped arguing and fighting. But what made the situation even Worse was that, According to ancient Chinese tradition, Li-Li had to bow To her mother-in-law and obey her every wish. All the anger and Unhappiness in the house was causing Li-Li's poor husband great distress.
Finally, Li-Li could not stand her mother-in-law' s bad temperAnd dictatorship any longer, and she decided to do something about It.
Li-Li went to see her father's good friend, Mr. Huang, who sold herbs.
She told him the situation and asked if he would give her some poison So that she could solve the problem once and for all. Mr. Huang thought For a while,and finally said, " Li-Li, I will help you solve your problem,But you must listen to me and obey what I tell you ."
Li-Li said, " Yes, Mr. Huang, I will do whatever you tell me toDo."
Mr. Huang went into the back room, and returned in a fewMinutes with a package of herbs. He told Li-Li, " You can't use a quick-actingPoison to get rid of your mother-in-law, because that would cause peopleTo become suspicious .
Therefore, I have given you a number of herbs that will slowlyBuild up poison in her body. Every other day prepare some delicious meal andPut a little of these herbs in her serving. Now, in order to make sure That nobody suspect you when she dies. You must be very careful to act very friendly towards her. Don't argue with her, obey her every wish, and treat her likeA queen ."
Li-Li was so happy. She thanked Mr. Huang and hurried home toStart her plot of murdering her mother-in-law. Weeks went by and months Went by, and every other day, Li-Li served the specially treated food to her Mother-in-law. She remembered what Mr. Huang had said aboutAvoiding suspicion, so she controlled her temper, obeyed her Mother-in-law, and treated her like her own mother.
After six months had passed, the whole household had changed. Li-Li had practiced controlling her temper so much that she found that she almost never got mad or upset.
She hadn't had an argument with her mother-in-law in sixMonths because she now seemed much kinder and easier to get along with. The Mother-in-law' s attitude toward Li-Li changed, and she began to love Li-Li Like her own daughter. She kept telling friends and relatives that Li-Li was the Best daughter-in- law one could ever find. Li-Li and her mother-in-law Were now treating each other like a real mother and daughter. Li-Li's husband was very happy to see what was happening.
One day, Li-Li came to see Mr. Huang and asked for his help Again.
She said, " Dear Mr. Huang, please help me to keep the poison from Killing my mother-in-law! She's changed into such a nice woman, and ILove her like my own mother. I do not want her to die because of the poison I gave her."
Mr. Huang smiled and nodded his head. " Li-Li, there'sNothing to worry about. I never gave you any poison. The herbs I gaveYou were vitamins to improve her health. The only poison was in your Mind and your attitude toward her, but that has been all washed away by the Love which you gave to her."
HAVE YOU REALIZED that how you treat others is exactly how They will treat you?
There is a wise Chinese saying:
" The person who loves Others will also be loved in return."
Nice story isnt..., love begets Love, treat others the way you want to be treated...
Their personalities were very different, and Li-Li was angered by Many of her mother-in-law' s habits. In addition, she criticized Li-Li Constantly . Days passed and weeks passed. Li-Li and her mother-in-law Never stopped arguing and fighting. But what made the situation even Worse was that, According to ancient Chinese tradition, Li-Li had to bow To her mother-in-law and obey her every wish. All the anger and Unhappiness in the house was causing Li-Li's poor husband great distress.
Finally, Li-Li could not stand her mother-in-law' s bad temperAnd dictatorship any longer, and she decided to do something about It.
Li-Li went to see her father's good friend, Mr. Huang, who sold herbs.
She told him the situation and asked if he would give her some poison So that she could solve the problem once and for all. Mr. Huang thought For a while,and finally said, " Li-Li, I will help you solve your problem,But you must listen to me and obey what I tell you ."
Li-Li said, " Yes, Mr. Huang, I will do whatever you tell me toDo."
Mr. Huang went into the back room, and returned in a fewMinutes with a package of herbs. He told Li-Li, " You can't use a quick-actingPoison to get rid of your mother-in-law, because that would cause peopleTo become suspicious .
Therefore, I have given you a number of herbs that will slowlyBuild up poison in her body. Every other day prepare some delicious meal andPut a little of these herbs in her serving. Now, in order to make sure That nobody suspect you when she dies. You must be very careful to act very friendly towards her. Don't argue with her, obey her every wish, and treat her likeA queen ."
Li-Li was so happy. She thanked Mr. Huang and hurried home toStart her plot of murdering her mother-in-law. Weeks went by and months Went by, and every other day, Li-Li served the specially treated food to her Mother-in-law. She remembered what Mr. Huang had said aboutAvoiding suspicion, so she controlled her temper, obeyed her Mother-in-law, and treated her like her own mother.
After six months had passed, the whole household had changed. Li-Li had practiced controlling her temper so much that she found that she almost never got mad or upset.
She hadn't had an argument with her mother-in-law in sixMonths because she now seemed much kinder and easier to get along with. The Mother-in-law' s attitude toward Li-Li changed, and she began to love Li-Li Like her own daughter. She kept telling friends and relatives that Li-Li was the Best daughter-in- law one could ever find. Li-Li and her mother-in-law Were now treating each other like a real mother and daughter. Li-Li's husband was very happy to see what was happening.
One day, Li-Li came to see Mr. Huang and asked for his help Again.
She said, " Dear Mr. Huang, please help me to keep the poison from Killing my mother-in-law! She's changed into such a nice woman, and ILove her like my own mother. I do not want her to die because of the poison I gave her."
Mr. Huang smiled and nodded his head. " Li-Li, there'sNothing to worry about. I never gave you any poison. The herbs I gaveYou were vitamins to improve her health. The only poison was in your Mind and your attitude toward her, but that has been all washed away by the Love which you gave to her."
HAVE YOU REALIZED that how you treat others is exactly how They will treat you?
There is a wise Chinese saying:
" The person who loves Others will also be loved in return."
Nice story isnt..., love begets Love, treat others the way you want to be treated...
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Strange
The painting of the last supper is extremely interesting and instructive.
The two incidents connected with it afford a most convincing lesson on the effects of right and wrong thinking in the life of a boy or a girl or of a man or a woman. Leonardo da Vinci, a noted Italian artist, painted the Last Supper; and the time engaged for its completion was seven years.
The figures representing the twelve apostles and Christ himself were painted from living persons. The life-model for the painting of the figure of Jesus was chosen. When it was decided that Da Vinci would paint this great picture, hundreds and hundreds of young men were carefully viewed in an endeavor to find a face and personality exhibiting innocence and beauty, free from the scars and signs of dissipation caused by sin.
Finally, after weeks of laborious searching, a young man nineteen years of age was selected as a model for the portrayal of Christ. For six months, Da Vinci worked on the production of this leading character of his famous painting. During the next six years, Da Vinci continued his labors on this sublime work of art. One by one, fitting persons were chosen to represent each of the eleven apostles; space being left for the painting of the figure representing Judas Iscariot as the final task of this masterpiece. This was the Apostle, you remember, who betrayed his Lord for 30 pieces of silver, worth in our present day, currency of $16.96. For weeks, Da Vinci searched for a man with a hard callous face, with a countenance marked by scars of avarice, deceit, hypocrisy, and crime; a face that would delineate a character who would betray his best friend.
After many discouraging experiences in searching for the type of person required to represent Judas, word came to Da Vinci that a man whose appearance met his requirements had been found in a dungeon in Rome, sentenced to die for a life of crime and murder. Da Vinci made the trip to Rome at once, and this man was brought out from his imprisonment in the dungeon and led out into the light of the sun. There, Da Vinci saw before him a dark, swarthy man; his long, shaggy and unkempt hair sprawled over his face, which betrayed a character of viciousness and complete ruin. At last, the famous painter has found the person he wanted to represent the character of Judas in his painting.
By special permission from the king, this prisoner was carried to Milan where the picture was being painted; and for months he sat before Da Vinci at appointed hours each day as the gifted artist diligently continued his task of transmitting to his painting this base character in the picture representing the traitor and betrayer of our savior. As he finished his last stroke, he turned to the guards and said, I have finished.
You may take the prisoner away. As the guards were leading the prisoner away, he suddenly broke loose from their control and rushed up to Da Vinci, crying as he did so, O, Da Vinci, look at me! Do you not know who I am?
Da Vinci, with the trained eyes of a great character student, carefully scrutinized the man upon whose face had constantly gazed for six months and replied, No, I have never seen you in my life until you were brought before me out of the dungeon in Rome.
Then, lifting his eyes toward heaven, the prisoner said, Oh, God, have I fallen so low? Then turning his face to the painter he cried, Leonardo Da Vinci! Look at me again for I am the same man you painted just seven years ago as the figure of Christ.
This is the true story of the painting of the Last Supper that teaches so strongly the lesson of the effects of right or wrong thinking on the life on an individual. Here was a young man whose character was so pure, unspoiled by the sins of the world that he represented the countenance of innocence and beauty fit to be used for the painting of a representation of Christ.
But, within seven years, following the thoughts of sin and a life of crime, he was changed into a perfect picture of the most traitorous character ever known in the history of the world.
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