
grounded faithfully
focused beyond symbolism
What? Who? Over where?
***
– Learning –
a collection of photos and poems.

grounded faithfully
focused beyond symbolism
What? Who? Over where?
***
– Learning –
a collection of photos and poems.
We visited DC when our son lived in Virginia. Visiting any war memorial is an emotional experience, and that is a great shot of Marine One, Audrey. ❤️
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Lauren, my son was accepted into George Washington University. We went out for a week so he could talk to professors. I enjoyed my visit, and honestly, cried more than I have in a long time. I don’t think anyone can understand until they visit. Thank you for your thoughtful comment. ♡
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Congratulations, Audrey! That’s wonderful, and my husband and I felt the same way when we visited our son and he played tour guide in DC. I think you’re right; you really have to visit those memorials, read the names, and truly think about the history. We couldn’t help but get emotional – also while visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I wish your son all the best at GWU! ❤️
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The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was humbling. I have so much respect for the men who qualify for that opportunity. The guidelines are fascinating. Thank you so much!
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Looks like Marine 1 is about to touch down.
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I missed the opportunity to get it landing at the white house. I did, however, leave the Jefferson Memorial in time to get it going back to where it had been. The video was a bonus. Thanks for the comment, C. Very thoughtful.
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Seeing that bird coming and going right there is always a good time. Really pretty right after sunset.
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I’m kinda dorky when I see cool things. I cannot hide my amazement. I imagine a sunset setting (giggle) would be dreamy.
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Yep, the entire area simply hushes as everyone leaves. By its nature that immediate area is a unique cityscape before you factor in the public interface of memorials and what have you. Then, as a hoard of government workers punch out and the tour groups disappear you are suddenly left with a couple of hundred acres of perfectly manicured quiet. Through all of this precisely thumps someone else’s ride to work with everything rippling and reflecting it as it simultaneously has ghosted images of the area its entering. Quite nice to take in before the silence returns.
Now, as you see the imagery in TV or movies, your mind’s eye will understand the reality it plays out in.
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I found being in the area after “working hours” was really enjoyable. Night was remarkable, ominous and offered a lot of time for reflecting on what all these buildings really mean. I mean, as much as someone who hasn’t worked or served for our country can. I was humbled and left with so much more awareness, I hope. I I’ve said in other comments on this post. I found myself crying quite a bit for the men and women who lost their lives, but more so for those who lived through it and found a way to live after their return. Praying for those actively serving has become a joy for me. Grateful for the enlightenment.
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I remember being there in the era when “the Wall” went up. (The artist really created an impact with the setup.) Then I’ve been thereabouts at other times for other reasons. It’s always thought provoking and it’s useful to move in and out of the area. To be there day after day, week after week for years would see one become inured to its power and importance. It is a thing all should experience and appreciate yet it is something that should always hold a reverence of sorts. That should be result of what it symbolizes, what was needed to attain it and what has been expended to hold it.
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Your words are much more appropriate than mine ever could be. You have knowledge few do. I’m certain I will encourage everyone who hasn’t been to go, walk, listen and learn. I’ve enjoyed sharing my visit. I understand now why my son gravitated to the Lincoln Memorial at night. Quiet and lots of time to think about what is done in DC.
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Good place to just be. Seems odd until you sit there quietly in the dark coming to grips with how lucky we are, how precarious and precious our situation always is and wondering what (if anything) we can do to protect this blessing for those around us.
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I believe so. There’s something to that, indeed. If everyone could just ponder a bit more of what you said we’d be a heck of a lot better off. It’s easy to feel discouraged. Grateful for my faith and the faith of those who want to protect. Pondering how to help and make a difference.
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Good start is a long view. Too many fall into the emotions of “now” instead of seeing the good of the whole tomorrow, next week, next month, next year and into the next generations. They forget that we typically needs sacrifice now to thrive then. It’s the difference between spending every penny and investing in the future.
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Yes, emotion has its place, I will always believe that to be okay. Faith in the journey and living the day we’ve been given requires strength and a belief in God. His time is always perfect.
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Great shot of Marine one, Audrey. Are you in Washington permanently?
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I enjoyed catching the video of Marine One. We were at the Jefferson Memorial. No, I won’t be moving to DC, not my dream, but it was fun to visit. Thanks for leaving a comment here, John.
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