23 Oct. That is the last destination – and some think that is the centre of the world. Both those out and those in. Washington DC. And its power house.
{Disclaimer: These are cell phone pictures taken on a dull, cloudy day, which soon ended my day with heavy, non-stop rains! Apologies for these bad pictures}

{Fall is a lovely time – at least the beginning of the Fall -l’autumne- trees and plants get ready to shed their ornaments, their dress AFTER wearing it beautiful and colourful. It is that time of the year}

{It is a commercial building- a restaurant- in Georgetown, along the River Potomac}
It was only two days. Just a little meeting; that was to be on yesterday (Monday) afternoon; but my bad! I couldn’t meet him. In this huge space, I couldn’t locate him. Probably, he couldn’t either. After all, technology not really a big blessing; we know it when we have digital reminders in lieu of our memories, and they fail; we have cell phones to go with us wherever we go, and when you need it the most, their voice mail-boxes/ answering machines ask you to leave a message. And you actually don’t communicate.
{The Potomac River, along which is built Georgetown, and the Georgetown University}
And I lost my appointment with him yesterday. With that the most important part of my visit to Washington DC was gone. With that the secondary – the enjoy the beauty of the city, and upload a few good pictures.
But he was kind; he was keen on meeting me today. And we met. But we met close to noon – that meant I couldn’t meet another of my friends. After all the efforts to meet. So sorry!

{Like in most places, protests against policies, actions and behaviors of the government unacceptable go on, here too; a difference: in the US, people and the media can and DO speak against it.}
Another less important consequence: to miss the city and the “center”. Power Centre of the world, if you prefer it.
With that it was lunch. And the skies were threatening me anyway. It was dark!

{A restaurant along the river Potomac in Georgetown}
During lunch, the Jesuits suggested two things – first a conference on America – China relations. Such an interesting topic. I decided to attend it – the afternoon session. Afterall, not all sessions are free for visitors to attend – entry is strictly by ID cards. This one was an exception.
Another asked me if I had ventured into the public part of the city. Nope! Oh, no! And they provided irresistible clues.

{A statue in front of the White House}
One said, it’s about 40 minutes walking, if you CAN walk. Oh, you dare challenge me! Sure, why not! He said, The Mall – all the beautiful museums, galleries and places of attractions – all for free! Imagine, you get to visit all these places of interest for free. But in Washington DC, you do.
{The Washington Memorial}
Since Dan had shown me all these places while driving to Georgetown University on Sunday late evening (though in the rain), when he came to Union Station Bus Terminal to pick me up, I thought I would take a plunge – walk. Soon after lunch I started walking.
My knees were hurting. But I walked along the Potomac River. Such a lovely view. I used to view this last two days – morning, noon, and night. Such a beautiful view. My GPS was guiding me. And, then it started raining. Not many buildings in the US or in Washington to hide under, unlike in India. These are straight buildings with no offer of shade or shelter. Oh, what a technology! Useless when you need the most!

{The notoroius Watergate Scandal that shook America between July 1972 and August 1974. The time has changed; but the name remains}
I could see the Washington Memorial from a very short distance – but the gloomy skies made it un-see-able. When rains abated, I walked a little more. There they were – the secret service police who guard the powers-to-be. Thousands of people –some with umbrellas, others with caps, some with raincoats, some like me – wet. Suddenly, I realised, I was right in front of the White House. But not allowed to go in.
Last night I went to the website. But found that to visit the White House (there was a way) – I had to write to the local senator three months in advance, and on the day s/he offers (if at all offered), I need to go. But I am here, and didn’t know my schedule even a month ago!

But what do you lose in trying? A few minutes. But there is so much to gain – if lucky, an entry; otherwise, so much of knowledge, experience, learning for the future, and confidence.
I researched the politics here – the Senator of Washington DC – Eleanor. Followed her on Twitter. And then also wrote to her asking.
Sure enough – no reply. I was asking for moons in the yonder sky.
Till I reached the White House today, there was no response. And till I write this, there is no response. And till I reach India and have forgotten, there won’t be any response! But I have learnt a bit, I know a little more. Thank you.

{The white White House – the side walks are under repair – we care for you!}
Whenever I felt the rain had abated a bit, I ventured out from under the trees and clicked a picture of the White House, the Washington Memorial, and a few things. For sure, there was no way I could visit any of the museums, art galleries, centres, or offices. Rain wouldn’t allow me to walk from one place to another. And my paining ankle and knees allow me to run, either. So, be it.
Checked my Google Maps – the Metro was close by. It was 3.00pm already. Metro Centre (close to the White House) was close by. Better go back. Will be home for Mass and dinner to say goodbye to Wolfington Community.

{The fence replacement project at The White House; else, I could have walked about 30-40 feet closer to the Temple of Power}
Managed to enter the Metro Center – thanks to a couple of Americans who also helped me with information (to reassert the Google Maps). Thanks to Dan for his SmarTrips card to avail Metro. Just two stops. There I was at DuPont Station. From there I was to get a Georgetown University bus to the University. Didn’t know, where exactly. P St, 28. Someone suspected it could ‘somewhere that side!’ Thanks to her (:-
Believe it or not, GU bus was waiting. And I reached by 4pm; again, in the rain. I was drenched!
Washington DC – the city I did not visit. I did not see. Did not enjoy.
Like this:
Like Loading...