The Best ThingsRecently there was a TV commercial that said "there are some things money can't buy". The story “The Practical Heart” by Allan Gurganus could be used for this ad. It's about a wealthy family who is plunged into poverty during their visit to America. Her family heritage, the way in which she obtained the painting and the painting itself are all factors that allow Muriel to restore her family dignity. Muriel's family heritage is a factor because without it, dignity is not there to be restored. They lived on a seven-acre plot of land called “Sunnyside.” Sunnyside had a large stone house and an orchard. The father was a writer and professor who had published four books. He was educated by tutors at his home. He was proficient in Greek and Latin and could recite three days of poetry. Muriel, the eldest daughter, was a child prodigy on the piano and had received excellent grades. All of this is a reason why Muriel had the portrait made. Her family now lives in poverty and is looked down upon by people who should be dignified. By having the portrait made, the dignity that the family once had can be restored. “He saved you and, with you, redeemed the tarnished dignity of your clan” (39). Muriel sees that Sargent can capture truth in his paintings and believes he will be able to capture true beauty in her. How Muriel goes about obtaining the painting is also a factor as it is the only way to achieve her goal. . Muriel saves and sacrifices for years to afford to visit Sargent. When she is finally able to go, she knows she must conduct herself in a way that respects the great artist. “Knowing that they would need the added respectability that her stationery gives them” (47), she stays in the best hotel in the village. She visits churches to give the impression that she is not traveling all the way just for the painting. She wears her best clothes and converses knowledgeably with Sargent. She plays the role of someone who deserves to be painted by the big one. If Muriel had not proceeded as she did, the painting would never have seen the light of day...