Nov 23, 2009

Tasks not finished



Today, I have a double photo post, following a few days without any as we were traveling in our Nation's Capital, Washington D.C. Our trip was two fold, the primary purpose being to assist in ministering to a needy population there and second to spend a family day visiting the National mall. This first photo, taken inside the Lincoln Memorial, is one in which I wanted to convey the majesty and solemness of this structure overlooking the great expanse that stretches to the Capital Building at the other end. Within this exposure, I purposefully set the shot low as I wanted to create a visual 'path', so to speak, using the columns to lead to and frame the statue.

As you climb the steps of this historic Doric Temple and first see this larger than life figure seated in marble upon his throne, what strikes me most is the casual, unpretentious pose Lincoln exhibits, as if reflective and weary, still wearing his heavy coat. The steps on which he resides, lift him up as unapproachable with the massive columns flanking him on either side, separating him from his most famous of speeches. This president, long viewed as one of our most honored is widely credited with abolishing slavery while within the effort of saving the union of our country and it is an emotional experience to stand before this place memorializing him. His efforts along with others has helped to bring our county to a place where we all can enjoy the freedom and equality offered us in our great nation.

The second photo, taken the next day not very far from the walls and columns of stone decorating with pride our nations history, very sadly shows that some of us are still more equal than others. These people, who suffer daily along sidewalks and under bridges, hidden right in plain view from the blindness of our busy, involved lives are still in their own form of bondage and slavery. Whether it be physical, mental, economic or of a substance dependency, many are trapped into a cycle they cannot substantially break on their own. This photo represents the second and most important part of our journey as we as a family were privileged to reach out to care for, love and respect these forgotten and neglected members of our great society. In following our Lord's commands and doing something so small, even to the least of us, the kindness and true appreciation we received back from them was worth far more of lasting value to us than any of our steps though the cold marble monuments to great men. In retrospect, these actions are ones that Lincoln would probably approve of.