memorial

During our trip to Oklahoma, we had the opportunity to go to the Oklahoma City National Memorial. My dad works for the government and actually works in the new Federal building kiddie corner to the old building/memorial. It was a sobering experience. But I'm glad that we went. I will never understand why people destroy innocent people and think that they are proving a point.

"And Jesus Wept" statue was built by the local Catholic church whose cathedral suffered significant damages from the blast.

Wall left alone to show damage

The wall of this building -now the museum shows damage to roof and fire escape.

Children's Area. These are ceramic tiles made from letters sent from children across America after the bombing. There are slate areas on the ground and sidewalk chalk for children to draw pictures or leave messages of hope.

Aaron and Claire walking by reflection pool and Gates of Time

The field of empty chairs. It was sad especially because of the 19 small chairs.

Me, Noel (in stroller), Aaron, Claire, and my mom in front of reflection pool.

The Memorial Fence: These are items brought from all over to remember the people and children who lost their lives. There were some pretty sad things, toys and pictures of children who had died, who would be old enough to start college now. Interestingly, my eyes went right to a little picture of the Savior with the 13 Articles of Faith on the back and I thought about #13 "We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things".

This is the survivor tree. Interestingly enough the inscription on the wall built around it says, "The spirit of this city and this nation will not be defeated; our deeply rooted faith sustains us".