A Moment of Silence

Pennsylvania Ave is a cold place in January. But not even the sub-freezing temperatures keep Americans from speaking their mind. Everywhere you go in Washington, D.C. you’ll find someone who’s not happy with something and they’ve got a sign to tell you about it. This morning was no different as I passed the White House. As I kept on walking, I came around to the Vietnam Memorial. There were very few people; it was quiet; I took my time. As I passed the sections of the memorial, I was astounded at the sheer number of names I saw. I have an uncle who served in Vietnam; he was lucky enough to make it back. But his experiences over there changed him forever; not in a good way.

A guide says that the names are placed within their respective units on the wall; with no regard to rank, age, or race. Having heard stories from those who have served and seeing countless war movies, I get the idea that the ‘brotherhood’ that is always portrayed is no BS but the real thing. You rely upon and trust your family; whether at home where it’s safe or in a far away place where it’s not. They were brothers.

Marilyn

Yes, this is the Marilyn. The one done by Andy Warhol. I saw it in person at the Smithsonian National Art Museum. Nice piece of art; nice museum.

A Different Feeling

There’s that feeling in the air today. You know. Early in the morning, the previous day’s heat trapped in the air by a thin cloud blanket at night. The crispness is absent; in its place a strange tepid feeling that a change is on the horizon. Bugs sit quietly, birds are silent. Weird stillness adds an element of ‘Poe’. Memories of late-spring mornings when the warm winds blow from the south clearing out the last signs of winter; flying kites atop a hill while your hair is tossed back and forth. The exhilaration of life that fills the air circulates throughout my body. Spring brings life, rebirth, and new beginnings. There’s that feeling in the air today.