OKC...

This image does not do the actual memorial justice. I found that out today.

I have been in Oklahoma City for work these past few days. I decided to take some time and drive downtown, even though it was pouring rain and rush hour. It was worth it.

Monday, April 19, marks the 15 year anniversary of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing. I remember that day, vividly - it was a Wednesday and I was 13 years old. The bombing in downtown Oklahoma City was, until 9/11, the most destructive act of terrorism in the United States.

I can still remember laying on the floor, watching television - as they sifted through rubble and tried to find order in Chaos. Being from a small town, I didn't understand fully what was actually happening. I didn't quite get the scale of what the country was dealing with. I knew it was serious because when I asked my dad why someone would bomb the federal building, he couldn't answer me. If he didn't have an answer - it was bad.

I still remember wondering if something like that could happen closer to me, Oklahoma was hitting a little close to home. I remember being scared - what would I do if my mom or dad worked in a building like that, or what if someone I loved couldn't be found. What if something like that happened to me when I grew up, where I worked?

That day in April I haven't forgotten. Just like I will not likely forget the feeling that came over me as I drove up sixth street in downtown Oklahoma City. The entrance (pictured) is quite breathtaking, but the items attached to the chainlink fence makes flesh rise.

It was raining and unfortunately I wasn't able to get out and walk around, I would like to - soon. If the outside was humbling, the inside must be overwhelming.