It's the Final Countdown

I spent my last full free day in D.C. with Aunt Janet, and we had quite a lovely day. First Church, then some tasty Mexican food, then home to breathe a little. We then visited the FDR and Jefferson Memorials--two of the few memorials of which I didn't have distinct memories. We fixed that today. FDR's memorial was very tasteful, and it was inspiring to read such idealistic words. Aunt Janet was right to say that most modern presidents just don't speak in the statesman like speech of the older presidents--newer presidents lean to political rhetoric rather than idealistic and inspirational prose. A pity, really. Anyways.

The Jefferson memorial was splendid--such a beautiful building. We also were fortunate in our timing of arrival in that we were able to catch a tour of the Jefferson, which was super informative. There's very little to take away from the memorial without some knowledgable person explaining the subtle symbolism scattered throughout the structure. For instance, the guide (whose name, no lie, was Sam Snider) was able to tell where in the U.S. the stones creating the memorial came from, with the floor coming from a southern state, the ceiling from a northern, the interior from a southern, the exterior from the north, the base of his statue was made from stones from states bought in the Louisiana purchase etc.

He also emphasized Jefferson's metaphor of a "coat of democracy", which was a concept I found so wise and humble to come from a man as influential as Jefferson. The basic concept is that as America grows and changes, the "coat of democracy" has to be tailored again and again to fit the changing country or the fabric democracy of the coat will rip and fall to pieces. He's so absolutely right, but what wisdom and humility it must take to be able to look at an incredible document that you poured your time and talent into and be able to say (I'm paraphrasing here), "I know it isn't perfect and that it needs to and should change." Just some food for thought.

 Back to my day, Aunt Janet and I got some frozen yogurt, came home and watched some cheesy movies, I sewed a pair of pointe shoes, she made some incredible pasta, I packed my stuff for tomorrow, and now I'm off to sleep. It's been a wonderful weekend, and an incredible month, but I'm excited to hug my siblings and parents again. 6 days and counting.