The Melting Pot is a 40 x 48 oil on canvas painting that is full of symbolism. The melting pot represents the cultural alloy that makes the U.S. Strong. Out of many different cultures, we became something unique. The American culture is so desirable that people have braved many hardships to come here. .........................................................The many flags on the painting represent the nations of the world and the fires that forged our country out of conflicts. The U.S. was blessed by God because it was founded on Judeo-Christian beliefs of Justice, Equality, and Fairness. From a Christian point of view, this represents the makeup of Heaven where every race is represented equally. ....................................................There is gold in the melting pot which represents the people blending together in a way that makes the whole more valuable than the parts. Our differences makes us more interesting and stronger giving us flavor. The blending takes place when we follow God's founding principles recorded in the Declaration, that "All Men Are Created Equal." The wrinkles in the Declaration of Independence represent the ancient desires of people to live and worship freely, to speak ones mind, and to be able to work to make a better life. ..................... The founding of our country starts with discovery and conflict. The flags and symbols of countries and tribes, as well as flags of our internal conflicts surround the melting pot. Every conflict brings us more immigrants escaping tyrants. All the conflicts in the world today reminds us that we have an obligation to stand up for what is right regardless of personal loss and the only antidote for hate is love.