Today, more than most days, I have a lot to be grateful for. I had several highlights today, mental, spiritual, and social. But here, I will share a spiritual highlight.
It was a privilege to spend part of my weekend in Gettysburg, yes, the historical battlefield. Before touring the fields, I saw a film followed by a cyclorama presentation. Throughout all of this, I thought of my ancestor, George Riley Hall, who fought in the battle of Gettysburg (he survived and lived to old age). The cyclorama was a large circular mural of the view of the battle as you would see it at the top of a hill near Cemetery Ridge. The arrangement, lighting, and sounds of the presentation made the battle feel very real. It was very easy to imagine myself there at that time.
After the dramatic presentation, I stayed in the room for a few moments, taking it all in as subtle dramatic music played in the background. The Civil War was to me no longer an abstract idea or a large dot on the American timeline. I spent those few quiet moments with tearful eyes and a grateful heart. An hour later, I went on a tour of the actual field and discovered where my ancestor fought and lived, but also where thousands more fought and died.
I have many people to thank for this special moment. Many people, including and especially our wonderful tour guide, made the Gettysburg conflict come alive for me today. To them, I am grateful.
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