Discovering the Majesty of Washington DC: A Personal Journey
When I first set foot on the hallowed grounds of Washington DC, I was a mere infant. Though I indeed recall the excitement upon my first clear memory of visiting the city, it came during a time when I was barely old enough to venture beyond my diaper years. However, as a young child with a vivid imagination and a steady television diet of news and movies, every architectural marvel, monument, and iconic building felt like a towering entity, both intimidating and intriguing.
To an adult observer, there truly is no other city in the United States that mirrors the unique charm of Washington DC. Its architectural design, especially the height limit, contributes to its distinctiveness. The European feel of the city, reminiscent of its French planner Pierre L'Enfant, combined with the spaciousness and abundance of parkland, is unparalleled. Anyone who visits DC for the first time is bound to be surprised by this open and inviting atmosphere that seems to embrace visitors from all corners of the globe.
Walking the Hallowed Grounds
My first significant visit to Washington DC coincided with the end of a sweltering May in 1979. The city, a place I often witnessed on TV from Indianapolis, held a special place in my young heart, particularly after the impact of President John F. Kennedy's funeral service, which I witnessed during my third-grade studies.
Arriving in the heart of the city was a surreal experience. The National Mall, the U.S. Capitol Building, and the National Art Gallery Portrait Gallery were some of the highlights of our journey. The joy of visiting Georgetown, a charming neighborhood with its quaint shops and restaurants, washed over me like a wave. Even now, decades later, the memory of that first visit remains vivid and cherished.
From Enchantment to Decision
Returning to Washington DC as an adult brought an entirely different perspective. In my sixth grade, I was overpowered by the grandeur and mystery of the city, a blend of awe and confusion. My visit in my mid-20s, after college, was a whirlwind of celebration and exploration. While helping a friend's friend move to Arlington, I found myself engrossed in Washington DC's vibrant atmosphere and rich history. The weekend turned into a journey of self-realization, and I knew, with renewed vigor, that this city was my place.
It took me a couple of years to act on that decision, but ultimately, I enrolled in graduate school and moved to the city in the early 1990s. After more than two and a half decades, my love for Washington DC has only grown stronger. The city's continued lure lies in its treasured locations, the people who call it home, and the countless experiences that continue to inspire and delight.
So, whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, Washington DC continues to captivate and enchant, much like the city I was once awestruck by as a child. Its unique charm and historical significance make it a city that one visits and never really leaves behind.