1) I’ve been to Union Station a million times — particularly when I was living here. How is it that I never noticed the big honking monument to Christopher Columbus in front? Well, I hadn’t — until today.
Upon Googling, I see that it is a fountain. Whatever. Didn’t look like a fountain to me. No water.
Anyway, the words are, “To the memory of Christopher Columbus, whose high faith and indomitable courage gave to mankind a new world.”
Holy-moly. Is that stirring or what? Put a lump in my throat. I’m surprised they haven’t sandblasted the words off. I’m kind of sorry I’ve mentioned it.
Today, we honor the Boys of ’76. But three hundred years before, give or take, came Columbus. I consider him our spiritual father, the first American.
“But what about the Indians? The Native Americans?” It depends on what you mean by “America.” I’m thinking of the political entity — the country — that grew up in the 18th century.
Anyway, this is a big subject . . .
2) I overhear a conversation on the Mall. It is a sign of our times. I report it — transcribe it — without judgment. Many won’t like it. Okay, here goes:
Mother: “Just because he says racist things, doesn’t mean he’s a racist.
Daughter: “Isn’t that how racism works?”
Mother: “Well, just because he retweets neo-Nazi things, doesn’t mean he’s a neo-Nazi.”
Daughter: “Oh, I see.”
3) It’s almost impossible to move on the Mall, and it’s literally impossible to move to the Lincoln Memorial — because fireworks are being set up, and the area has been declared dangerous.
Which reminds me of a piece I wrote three summers ago: “Blowing Up Barbie: The joy of explosives camp.” That camp is in Rolla, Mo. And it is indeed a joy. I’m all for safety, blah blah blah. “Safety first.” But the people in Rolla warn of the “bubble-wrapping” of America.
And I recall how a counselor described the camp’s activities: “arts and crafts with an edge.”
4) A giant PA system is being tested. For some reason, they are using the Mahler Seventh. That’s appropriate, because he (Mahler) loved bands, and incorporated several in his symphonies. And this is a big band day — not a big-band day (Glenn Miller et al.) but a big day for bands.
Notes from the Nation's Capital on the Fourth of July