Visualizing History

See more of my Arlington National Cemetery Photos at Flickr

Being in a cemetery is always a quiet time of introspection and thoughtful contemplation concerning one’s life. It somehow puts perspective on the things that matters most and the things that don’t. Cemeteries for me symbolize the fragility of life and just how precious and fleeting it is. Having the chance to visit Arlington National Cemetery was an experience I will never forget and I don’t mean that in the cliché sense. Seeing the thousands of grave markers of soldiers, sailors and Marines, almost all killed in defense of this country made me stop and consider and appreciate the great sacrifice of our heroes in uniform. Being in Arlington reaffirmed the greatness of this country and the number of patriots who paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy today. Without those graves our way of life could not be possible. Thank you to each and every member of our armed forces, it is because of you that today I have reaffirmed my commitment to teaching American history and government so that I can do my part in preserving this union you have so gallantly laid down your lives to preserve.