9/11 Memorial

Amazing work by all to create a space, a building, a time capsule, a place of remembrance, a place of contemplation. It helped bring 911 full circle for me. That which we saw at arms length now has a much deeper meaning. The architect clearly poured his life into this project. The design is integral to the story it contains.

A surreally awesome experience.

What was not awesome was seeing people smiling and making duck-faces for photos with the memorial in the background. You aren't required to shed tears, but imagine being there to see people leaping from the building... are you still smiling? Ignorant and selfish people.

The memorial itself is simple but moving. I didn't think it would be a very big deal, but it was an emotional sight. There is a museum that has an entrance fee, but the grounds of the old buildings and the two fountains are free to walk up to. In the day we were there, a guide stood by a tree and answered questions or told stories for anybody who would listen. There's not a lot to do here, so I wouldn't consider it an entertaining site for children. But it was definitely worth taking a few minutes to look down into the memorials and read the names of victims and just contemplate the scene.

The memorial was pretty spectacular. So beautiful with the waterflow representing possibly that life will go on. Very moving and sad.... Quite a site. Look forward to visiting the Museum in the future. It was a quick stop by but a very special, glorious sight. I had photos but I'm not sure where they are. If I find them I will be sure to post. Great memorial though.

I had to fight back the tears when listening to the personal accounts of the events as related by survivors. The same goes for the voicemail messages left by victims.

But the short film that features Pres. Bush, Sec. of State Rice and others is a mess. There are so many problems with this film. First, what's the point of having polarizing politicians speak/rationalize their responses to these horrific attacks? Bush gave us a war in Iraq. He preyed upon our fears and grief. In hindsight, the war was not just a mistake, but it destabilized the region . It facilitated the growth of terrorism.

A better film might include some of the Bush administration rationalizations. But it should also include criticism of their specific responses. These responses included a misguided war, torture, indefinite detentions, and illegal surveillance.

If you visit this memorial/museum, skip the film.