Almost twenty years ago to the day, I visited the Lincoln Memorial in Washington , D.C. for the first time. On this occasion, it was the early morning of my wedding day. I had spent the previous hours in Georgetown in observance of the last few hours of my “freedom”. My soon to be brother-in-law had determined our course upon leaving Georgetown and before the realization hit me, we were parked at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial (something you can’t do now). As I looked upon this awe inspiring memorial, I made the connection and gave appropriate accolades to my soon to be kin. Circumstances dictated that I pay homage and ascend the stairs to the memorial. Just as we had started the climb, two park police officers interrupted our efforts. The lump that had been forming in my throat was now constricting my breathing, as I was sure this encounter would involve our freedom. Of course, given the hour, an explanation was warranted and I was not the man to give it. Almost as though called upon by a greater power, my brother-in-law delivered a rousing and generally true account of why we were there. This account was worthy of Abraham Lincoln himself. There was a moment of silence as the officers looked at each other and then us. Thankfullym t he officers were kind and even allowed us to continue our venture. We set off again, climbing the stairs, purposeful, with steeled determination. As we made it to the top, the lighting accentuated the grandeur of the magnificent mounument. T he sculpture of Abraham Lincoln sat before us, much bigger than life, but it was evident that this sculpture was not that of a God, but of a man. He sat dignified, but obviously tested, wise with strength of conviction and purpose, a symbol of human rights, a symbol of freedom. It was a sobering and very special viewing. We left silently, much better for the experience. I have been back to this great memorial numerous times over the past twenty ears. The last was not that long ago. Diagnosed with a brain tumor and taking the time to be with my two sons, I felt that it was important for them to experience this monument with their father. It was a moving experience for us all. Now, the excised tumor is a fading memory and my boys speak fondly of their first vist. Recently, my nine-year-old daughter asked to see the monument after listening to her brothers’ account. She too, will have her time at the monument and I plan to be there to experience it with her. Good journeys!

No offense, but you Americans are really crazy, aren't you? I mean the guy was president for 8 years or so and signed a paper freeing the slaves, an idea which wasn't even his own, and you build a bloody temple for him. What is this, ancient Rome? Is is an accident that Abe sits in the same pose as the statue of Zeus in Olympia? I'm not a Christian but doesn't the first commandment say 'thou shallt not have any gods other than me'? Don't get me wrong: it was a beautiful temple and definitely worth a visit if you ever get to Washington. It's very impressive, especially if you like marble and massive columns. But as a Dutchman I tried to keep myself from laughing when I saw that enormous statue of Lincoln and thought about how Christian Americans claim to be, while in fact the only religion they have is nationalism.

The Lincoln Memorial viewed from the WWII Memorial, across the water, a beautiful site. The steps remind me a little of the Spanish Stairs in Rome, of course they don't lead to a large monument but the effect is similar. Simple, yet elegant, the writings on the wall should be read and the silence requested should be respected. It's incredible how much God and his will, is referenced. Turn around and look back over the water at the Washington Monument. I sight not to be missed!

My first impression was an average statue, I was wrong. The Lincoln statue inside the memorial is massive. I come up to about his feet on this impressive sculpture. Even without the immense size, I would highly recommend taking a look at this amazing piece of American history located at the end of the Arlington Memorial Bridge overlooking the spectacular reflecting pool.

This memorial was built to honor our 16th president of the US Abraham Lincoln. The memorial uses greek style architecture. On the walls you will find the words to lincoln's famous Gettysburg adress. Out front you will see a marked spot showing where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous I have a dream speech. Ono of my favorite memorials. in D.C.