~ Columbine Memorial ~

by Tina~in_ut

The first time I went to visit Dianne, she took me to Clement Park, near Columbine High School, where the Columbine Memorial is located. I went to look at it on my own and took my camera along. As I neared what I thought was the memorial, I remember thinking that they really could have done a better job, especially since it had already been 10 years since the tragedy. There were some bushes and a couple of flowers and a sign that told where you were.

As I neared the sign, I realized my error. That was just the entrance. Tucked into the side of the hill was the Memorial, and although it was the middle of the day, it was calm and quiet. There were colorful flowers as you walked in. I recognized the white ones as the columbine flower, but I didn't know until later that they were all columbines, just different colors. They were exquisite.


The memorial itself is circular. There is a ring in the center and the families of the deceased were able to write something about or to their loved one. There is water constantly running from a fountain that adds to the tranquility of the place. Along the back wall are quotes from various people: students, parents, President Clinton. One parent was quoted, "I hope people come here to this place to think about how they themselves can be better people rather than come here to reflect on death." A student was quoted as saying, "I would be misleading you if I said I understand this. I don't." If you start at one end and read to the other, there is no way you can get through it all without crying. I filmed this video after reading and while crying, so I'm sorry for the quality, but it will give you an idea of what it's like. The next time you visit Dianne, be sure to have her take you there. It's incredibly humbling.