The Timeless Legacy of Lincoln’s Words at the Lincoln Memorial

????Welcome to your bi-weekly jolt of well-brewed #inspiration. In serving #23 of 'BK Morning Brew’ let’s discuss the timeless legacy of Lincoln’s words. Thank you for subscribing, liking, sharing and commenting! #LetsBrewThis!??

As a young black kid, my first visit to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, felt like stepping into a world of immense history and grandeur. The gigantic marble columns rose like ancient sentinels, their sheer size dwarfing everything around them and creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. In the heart of this marble temple sat the colossal statue of Abraham Lincoln, his gaze both stern and kind, commanding respect and contemplation.

The statue was awe-inspiring, but it was the words inscribed on the surrounding walls that truly captured my imagination. Lincoln’s speeches, carved into the stone, spoke directly to my soul. I remember tracing the engraved letters with my eyes, feeling a connection to the past. His words, filled with hope, resilience, and a profound sense of justice, seemed to echo through the air….pulling at my little soul.

Standing there, I felt a sense of pride and inspiration. The memorial wasn’t just a tribute to a great man; it was a living testament to the ideals of equality and freedom that Lincoln fought for. It was as if his spirit was there, guiding me to understand the significance of his legacy and the ongoing struggle for civil rights and justice. For me, the Lincoln Memorial became a symbol of the enduring power of words and the timeless quest for a more just and equitable society.

Visiting the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, is an experience that blends awe-inspiring architecture with profound historical reflection. As you approach the iconic structure, the grandeur of the huge marble columns instantly captures the eye, standing tall and steadfast, much like the principles Abraham Lincoln himself upheld during his presidency. The centerpiece of this memorial, the 19-foot seated statue of Lincoln, further amplifies the sense of reverence and respect that visitors feel.

Beyond the impressive physical attributes of the memorial, it is Lincoln’s own words, etched into the walls, that truly resonate with those who visit. These inscriptions serve not just as a remembrance of Lincoln’s eloquence but as a powerful reminder of his enduring legacy.

As you stand amidst the towering columns and gaze upon the statue, the words surrounding you echo the profound wisdom and steadfast dedication of a leader who guided the nation through one of its most tumultuous periods. Phrases from Lincoln’s most famous speeches, including the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address, are immortalized in stone, their significance undiminished by the passage of time.

The Gettysburg Address, with its poignant opening line, “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal,” reminds visitors of the foundational ideals of the United States. It calls to mind the sacrifices made during the Civil War and the enduring struggle for equality and justice.

Equally compelling are the words from Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address, which reflect his profound understanding of the nation’s wounds and his hope for reconciliation and healing. “With malice toward none, with charity for all,” he urged a divided nation towards a future of unity and compassion. These words continue to inspire, serving as a testament to Lincoln’s vision for a nation healed and whole.

In the end, there is no better memorial to Lincoln’s wisdom and greatness than his own words. They pull at the heartstrings, reminding us of the enduring values of liberty, equality, and unity. The Lincoln Memorial stands not only as a tribute to a great man but as a timeless beacon of the ideals he championed. As visitors read his words, they connect with the past, reflect on the present, and are inspired to work towards a better future.

The Lincoln Memorial transcends its physical presence. It is a place where history speaks, where the legacy of a remarkable leader is felt deeply, and where Lincoln’s eloquence continues to guide and inspire. It is a reminder that while monuments may stand in stone, it is the words and ideals they represent that truly endure.??

???BK Biweekly Quote(s):? “America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.”— Abraham Lincoln

“Different backgrounds, different views, different experiences. The best teams are diverse. These are the ingredients that spark innovation.”— from Top 5 Learnings After Mentoring 100 Startups by Daniel Rizea

??BK Tiny Tip:? When visiting the Lincoln Memorial, take a moment to read the inscriptions of Lincoln’s speeches. These powerful words, from the Gettysburg Address to the Second Inaugural Address, encapsulate his vision for equality, democracy, and unity. Reflecting on these quotes can deepen your understanding of his enduring impact on American values and history.

??BK Mind-blowing Fact:? Approximately 40 percent of the Lincoln Memorial is actually underground. The part of the monument that visitors see is just the tip of the iceberg; its foundation extends 66 feet into the earth to support the massive marble structure above. This includes a three-story basement known as the undercroft, which is anchored by 122 enormous concrete pillars. This hidden aspect of the memorial underscores the monumental effort and engineering feats required to create such an enduring tribute to Abraham Lincoln.

??BK Journaling Prompt:? Reflect on your visit to the Lincoln Memorial or imagine standing before it. Consider the powerful inscriptions of Lincoln’s speeches and the symbolic architecture around you. Write about how the words and the design elements of the memorial make you feel about democracy, leadership, and unity. How do Lincoln’s ideals and the historical significance of this site influence your views on current societal challenges? How can his vision for equality and justice be applied in today’s world?

Your support means the world to me!? Keep the inspiration flowing, and let’s continue to connect, learn, and grow together. Thank you for subscribing, liking, sharing, and commenting! ?? - #ThinkBigger, BK

P.S.? My goal is to get to 1,000 subscribers this year!? If you are reading…please subscribe & share!????