"Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!"

So I just returned from a trip to Berlin, Germany. It was a wonderful experience and one that I will probably carry with me for a very long time. One of my visits was to see what remains of the Berlin Wall. I am not a history buff and so it was pretty much all new to me. At Bradenburger Tor (Bradenburg Gate) is where President Reagan gave his infamous speech. I was told that on the road there are stones to mark where the wall was. It was all throughout the city. We went to 'Checkpoint Charlie' where they still have the checkpoint, signs, and a photo of the last US military man, who stayed an extra four months. We then made our way to the East Side Gallery which is the longest stretch of the preserved wall, which has been painted by different artists.

I decided to straddle the "wall."

I was in awe at many of the pictures painted on the wall, but also of the sheer size of the wall. I couldn't imagine living somewhere and being trapped, especially being trapped on the 'bad' side. I have heard that many Germans are very grateful and thankful for America and all they did during the Cold War. Apparently, planes came in and left every minute of every day and that was how those on the DDR side survived, as the rations were unsustainable.

I recommend a visit to Berlin to anyone who ever gets a chance.

I will leave you with some quotes from the wall and some of the pictures I took while walking the 1 km stretch of the wall...

"He who wants the world to remain as it is doesn't want it to remain at all."

 

"Many small people who in Many small places do Many small things that can alter the face of the world"

 

"I painted over the wall of shame so freedom is ashamed no more. Inferno ruled too many years until the people chose the light. I put my faith in you Berlin and give to you all my colors."

 

"Say yes to freedom, peace, dignity and respect for all. Say NO to terror and repression towards all living beings. In the beginning was freedom." 

"Lead me on my dreams among different time and space. To share hope with nations and believers. To observe with modesty the pure truth. And to reveal prudently the magic and mystery."