Tag Archive for: National Cathedral

One last time: the sparkle, white marble and more endless saturation from The Smithsonian, Arlington and Alexandria.

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(Washington, part 6)

After our day at the National Cathedral…Nana and Papa went back to the condo and we went back to the Dr. King Memorial. E needed to visit during the day. (To be true, so did I.)

How many times have I said, “I’ll never forget,” while writing about Washington DC? (Either too many or not enough, perhaps!)

As we wandered through the National Mall, alongside the reflecting pool, my heart nearly burst. It was a perfect fall day, about 75 degrees with the kind of breeze that ALWAYS, ALWAYS speaks of Jesus to me.

The city was alive, as we wandered through all the monuments, one last time. I couldn’t imagine how fun it would be if this were our regular biking route as the whole city seemed to be out and active. There was a volleyball tournament on the lawn beside the Washington Monument, runners, bikers and roller bladers who breezed past, greeting and encouraging one another. My son got some encouragement of his own after his backflip in front of the Washington Monument!

We finished our stroll at Dr. King’s monument and it was a whole different kind of breathtaking in the light of dusk. Both daughter and I couldn’t speak (until a crew of middle schoolers descended loudly and happily.)Then we exited quickly to the gift shop!

My husband has long arms for taking selfies for which I am always glad. A woman walked up just after he’d taken this one and asked if she could take one for us…I so appreciate the thought.
The best memories with this girl…I love every minute.

The next morning, we were all excited to head to the Smithsonian. We had decided to visit the Museum of American History and then decide what was next.

I will start by saying how fantastic all the museums are in Washington. I’ve never seen anything like it. I imagine you could look at something different every day for a year and not begin to see it all.

As is our custom, my daughter and I darted into the gift shop upon arrival. We emerged with Mr. Rogers socks and a baseball hat, both quickly becoming treasured memories. Then we took an elevator upstairs…as the doors opened, we were greeted with the sounds of Whitney Houston singing the Star Spangled Banner and the sounds of moments, performances, impactful moments and memories that, as you walked further in to the display, you may be able to see or even touch! We crowded around the Jumbo-tron when a snippet of Hamilton appeared, instantly singing along. My parents and I winced, watching Greg Louganis hit his head on video from the 1988 Olympics. As we reminisced about our Olympic memories, I turned, a red sparkle glinting at me…

As I turned from the movie at the entrance of the Entertainment Nation (Nación del espectáculo,”), my eyes fell on a plexiglass case: inside which, sat the authentic Ruby Red Slippers…

Growing up, The Wizard of Oz was always shown on TV, one time each year. It was family tradition to pop popcorn (along with a huge treat, our OWN can of Coke.) I had a love/hate relationship with this movie, at least as a little kid…did that witch scare anyone else? Maybe it was just me. I would pull the white Afghan my grandma made over my head and watch through the threads as the Wicked Witch of the West’s cackling, ominous voice filled the screen and speakers. As I’ve grown, it is a sweet memory with my sister and parents, similar to The Sound of Music!

To SEE these shoes in person that were so much a part of my growing up was simply, breathtaking…

We wandered, a trip through time, chronicling the world of entertainment, unable to really take it all in. From Indiana Jones’ famous fedora, Oprah’s gold plated microphone, Muhammad Ali’s Robe and original clothing from Hamilton, we all had a grand time!

Captain America’s shield…one of our favorite Marvel superheroes.
“Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee…”

It will come as no surprise, however, when I tell you that the moment I laid eyes on Mr. Rogers red sweater and blue sneakers, right next to Elmo, Oscar the Grouch and Rosita, was my favorite of that day… amazing! To stand just feet from the sweater his mother knitted for him, the worn blue tennis shoes he intentionally changed into to signal to his audience the shift from work to play, real to make-believe was surreal. Sesame Street too holds a special place in our hearts. My kids each have a favorite character, as do I. I have sweet, sweet memories of many episodes.

Almost as good as a visit with Mr. Rogers and Sesame…ALMOST.

As our kids walked, wandered, oh’d and ahhh’d, the curious truth was this: they were seeing things from US history they had never considered. Much like learning about history in the Capitol building, White House and all over DC, here they were learning too. It just looked and felt different than a few days ago.

Susan Stamberg, (special correspondent for NPR) wrote in a June interview this year, “Race, fairness, ideals, death and fears – all touched on by things we bought, heard, saw, laughed at, loved over the decades – “Entertainment Nation” in regards to the nearly 1 year old reimagined permanent exhibit.” It was incredible how the exhibit showcased US history, political and entertainment connections; history and the life-changing impacts on the world.

As we pried ourselves from one exhibit to the next (simply called, The First Ladies) we walked into an exhibit bright with color, history, change and challenge. Taken from the Smithsonian website, “The First Ladies explores the unofficial but important position of first lady and the ways that different women have shaped the role to make their own contributions to the presidential administrations and the nation. The exhibition features more than two dozen gowns from the Smithsonian’s almost 100-year old First Ladies Collection, including those worn by Frances Cleveland, Lou Hoover, Jacqueline Kennedy, Laura Bush, and Michelle Obama. A section titled “Changing Times, Changing First Ladies” highlights the roles played by Dolley Madison, Mary Lincoln, Edith Roosevelt, and Lady Bird Johnson and their contributions to their husband’s administrations. The First Ladies encourages visitors to consider the changing role played by the first lady and American women over the past 200 years.”

Dishes, dresses, perspectives and causes that have changed the lives of so many Americans. My favorite part? A never-before seen Mr. Rogers dress worn by—- JUST KIDDING!

My genuine favorite part of this, our last day, was how are kids were making connections to many parts of history, choices, personal needs and choices. Our daughters gaped at the stunning gowns that again, we’d only seen on TV. They both recognized Dr. Jill Biden’s gown and coat, which impressed hubby and I both. It is thrilling to witness the connections they make as they grow to the world they will inherit. I pray we can continue to teach them to love, cultivate and care well.

There were discussions about costs, resources and choices (“Why did they spend the money to replace dishes EVERY time someone new came to office? That feels wasteful,” “Wow, it all changed between ____ and ______! Why?” and the comments continued….

When we were finally ready to visit another exhibit, we found ourselves wandering across the hallway and I knew the minute we entered that my heart was about to break.

“The Price of Freedom: Americans at War surveys the history of America’s military from the French and Indian Wars to the present day, exploring ways in which wars have been defining episodes in American history. The exhibition extends far beyond a survey of battles to present the link between military conflict and American political leadership, social values, technological innovation, and personal sacrifice. The heart of the story is the impact of war on citizen soldiers, their families, and communities.” Smithsonian Museum of American History website.

As my daughter pushed my wheelchair through this particular exhibit, we quietly whispered to one another…so difficult to see in so many ways the massive costs so many wars and conflicts have had on Americans and other soldiers, their families and the Earth itself. I am sure it is no surprise, if you’ve been reading along, that I am a lover of peace, justice and mercy. It was much like the Holocaust Museum in my mind, not wanting to avoid and acutely aware of the pain and loss on realistic display. By the time we finished going through the exhibit, my heart was heavy and my brain full – there was so much to take in.

We decided together that we were “museumed out” for the day and though we had just been through a really tough exhibit, we all wanted to visit Arlington National Cemetery before we began the trip home the next morning.

My dad is a veteran and has long discussed the discipline, sacrifice and selflessness of those who serve in the many branches of military of the United States of America. He and my mom both have a beautiful, timeless respect for those who have served and the families who wait for them at home. They are both role models in so many ways.

Another Metro trip and a whole other experience of awe-inspiring. We made our way to the trams and began our trip through the the perfectly cared for grounds, paths and more than 400,000 gravestones. Made of either Georgia or Vermont marble, the headstones weigh 250 lbs., are 4 inches deep, 13 inches wide and 42 inches tall. The precision placement of so many headstones, the honor and respect in this as well as the pride and respect of the those who work here was not lost on me in my work involving bereavement and loss.

We were able to visit the final resting place of President Kennedy and his family members, see the headstone of Ruth Bader Ginsberg and then made our way to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

I cannot imagine the commitment this requires, but seeing the precision and dedication of these selfless sentinels was both breathtaking and sobering: knowing that 365 days/year, whatever circumstances come, they are volunteering here, honoring the fallen. This made my complaints or struggles disappear.

From Arlington National Cemetery Literature: “Soldiers who volunteer to become Tomb Guards must undergo a strict selection process and intensive training. Each element of the Tomb Guard’s routine has meaning. The Guard marches 21 steps down the black mat behind the Tomb, turns and faces east for 21 seconds, turns and faces north for 21 seconds, and then takes 21 steps down the mat. Next, the Guard executes a sharp “shoulder-arms” movement to place his/her weapon on the shoulder closest to the visitors, signifying that he or she stands between the Tomb and any possible threat. The number 21 symbolizes the highest symbolic military honor that can be bestowed: the 21-gun salute.”

I sat mesmerized by the absolute dedication in every way. Though we stood outside, the space around us was so silent during The Changing of the Guard, you could hear a pin drop as we stared across the 639 acres of tribute, honor and solitude for so many who’ve given their lives for our freedoms. These too were moments I will never forget.

We rode the Metro back to the condo together, soaking in time, our own thoughts and hearts full of gratitude for it all. We are still processing so much, asking questions and reliving the moments of complete awe.

E and I shopped for a last time in sweet Old Town, Alexandria – found her one of a kind homecoming dress, eliciting lovely words from women in the store, munched on homemade chocolate chip cookies, visited bookstores, jewelry and a beautiful stationary store. One of the most interesting stores, (the only one of its’ kind in the US – according to its’ owner) was Ms. Moxie’s Moon Shop, a period positive store with a mission to inform and facilitate health for girls and women. It was refreshing to hear the knowledgeable owner and her colleague genuinely believe in removing shame and frustration around the subjects of woman and reproductive health.

All across our travels were these moments of wonder and saturation, from the monumental to the small, yet so significant: friendly, caring people EVERYWHERE, architecture, historical detail, laughter and TIME TOGETHER, honor, color, remembrance, joy, commitment and perseverance. From sparkling jewelry at Tiffany, the Rotunda at the Capitol, Cascading light in all directions in the National Cathedral and magnificent memories on the National Mall, it was an plethora of riches. The best, best blessing to our family was the GIFT of time with my parents and each other. I can’t say it enough….

I hope to appreciate the people who bless our lives ALWAYS, before I long for things. I pray to ALWAYS find Jesus in EVERYTHING, ALWAYS. I long to live in GRATITUDE, ALL OF MY DAYS, especially the hard ones. AND, I STRIVE to be overcome with AWE, for all that God has extravagantly given. Saturated, INDEED….

One last installment to go…it is a pretty special one. Thank you for reading, hearing and sharing in our stories. It means so much…

Both/And

xoxo

So much light, holiness, color and wonder….

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Washington Highlights (part 5)

I did not intend to write this much detail about our trip; honestly, I feel a bit self-indulgent. To write and share at least 5 parts, I wonder if people really want to hear about the details or if this is just another authentic part of the blog, vacation memories for the last few weeks, another topic another time. I wonder if I can possibly convey it well enough because, well…our trip just was, magical. (and it WAS NOT my beloved Disney this time, if you can believe it… 🙂

Our third day in the city found us on the now familiar Metro. I will readily admit that my parents led the charge in becoming familiar with both the Metro and the public bus system. They are braver and more familiar with this in their 70’s after a few trips to England than hubby and I will ever be, probably. It was our first time using the Metro and I was immensely thankful for their adventurous spirit and ease in “just finding our way.”

This time, we’d all decided to go see the National Cathedral, something that we and the kids had only seen on TV. I am also always curious about old church buildings for many reasons, so this was a natural draw. We got a little turned around in terms of getting there, but as always, my family was so supportive and tough. After an almost 2 mile walk (or roll for me) from the Metro stop, we arrived at the National Cathedral. We had wandered past beautiful homes, landscape and overall scenery on the walk, but staring at the cathedral itself felt somewhat ethereal.

The official name of Washington National Cathedral is the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. We stood gaping at the towering columns, sharp, steep spires and steeples; a mix textures, including stone, shimmering glass of every color, windows of many shapes and sizes. There is an actual Darth Vader head hidden up there, no joke!

The bubbling sounds of a fountain mixed with the awe we were experiencing even before we set foot through the massive, dark wooden doors. We wandered into a courtyard, the fountain whimsical to our sweet youngest who exudes her own whimsy, always. I have said it many times, but I had a hard time taking it all it all in. I felt like I couldn’t find any words, which for me, is quite a thing….

We entered through the solid doors and were instantly awash with colors, all around. The whole rainbow rested everywhere, our faces, clothing, the floor and the many pews in front of us, the instant we arrived. We must have looked a bit overwhelmed, even in all the color. A docent walked swiftly to our group of 7, encouraging us to join the guided tour just a few feet away.

“The West Rose seeks to sing its own hymn of praise to the universe,” designer for creation Rose, Rowan, LeCompte said, “for all it’s impressive size in the cathedral that must be a tiny song indeed when we pause to consider the infinite grandeur of the cosmos, this unimaginably vast created and creating mysterious miracle.”
Upon arriving, the Nave completely took our breath away. You could FEEL the spirit of the Lord here. I could not believe the splendor….
Light everywhere❤️

Another knowledgeable and joyful docent was explaining the details of his beloved cathedral with the warmest of smiles and eyes. He was telling of the many chapels within the cathedral (9 total!), years of history, intentionality and how everything leads back to the Word, God’s love and Jesus’s sacrifice. To really explain it all would take days on my blog….so a few photo highlights and thoughts will have to suffice until you go experience it firsthand. (YES, GO! You will NOT be sorry!) Before our trip, my understanding was limited to “the church the presidents go to before inauguration and where they hold state funerals” and that was all. Now, having stood in the middle of this holy, beautiful ground, I am infinitely more curious about the life of the cathedral, more of Jesus and how this place points back to him, always.

The miracles of Jesus, located in Saint John’s chapel. Absolutely stunning to me…
Known as the space window, it is one of the most popular windows at the cathedral. It holds a lunar sample from the Apollo 11 mission. A quote from the Bible – Job 22:12 – runs along the base of the window: “Is not God in the height of heaven?”

As we ventured through the cathedral, we were privileged enough to see the places where Abraham Lincoln, Helen, Keller, and and Anne Sullivan have been interred, amongst many others. It was holy ground indeed.

The docent showed us this beautiful pulpit where, during many state funerals, memorials, tributes, and eulogies have been delivered, as well as very famous sermons. I had chills when he recalled Martin Luther King, standing in this very pulpit the day before he was killed.

As always, all good things come to an end. After listening to an impromptu organ concert for a few minutes, it was time for us to go. On the way out, we stopped by a very unique fundraiser for the Cathedral, a Lego brick building of the cathedral itself. You could make a donation and add a few bricks. it was incredible! My Lego loving boy was thrilled.

In the book Jewels of Light, the Stained Glass of the Washington National Cathedral, Elody R Crimi writes, “a blend of visual and emotional sensations are integral to the experience of stained glass.” Rowan LeCompote, the cathedrals for most stained glass artist, compares glass to music.” Like music, stained glass, can stimulate the imagination, it can lift the heart, it can enchant.”

When I was growing up, the church I attended had rows of Stained Glass windows along each side of the church. I used to look at them, taking in the colors, artistry and beauty for the whole church service. Sometimes, I was concentrating more on the details in those windows than I was concentrating on our pastor and his preaching. I was indeed enchanted by them, and I hadn’t remembered that until a bit later on our trip. The enchantment with these is next level. They each tell vivid, detailed, both heartbreaking and redeeming stories. They combined the values of Christ and the history of our country to bind present and future together with the backdrop of the stunning cathedral.

The cathedral was a gift of artistry, architecture, wonder, and pure holiness. I had no idea that that trip to the Cathedral would become one of my very favorite memories of our time together. I breathed gratitude, awe, pleading for many we love and awareness of the God-breathed gifts.

And again – the reminders that God is everywhere and saturates everything.

Thankful, prayerful and hopeful.

Both/and

Xoxo

Job 22:12