Originally published in the Spring 1988 edition of Life Times: Forum for the New World A Monumental Construct by John D. MacArthur Our monument will combine the ageless pyramid with the bright vision of the highest knowledge. It is patterned after an original and revolutionary American design, one created by key figures in the genesis of our nation, and one that symbolically is America – especially from our perspective today. The symbol of the pyramid and radiant eye is becoming recognized as an accurate representation of our nation over time. And although it is over two centuries old, we will be the first to translate into a monument this timely and timeless image. The Base The base of the monument will be shaped like the great pyramid structures built in Egypt and Central America thousands of years ago. These are true monuments of time and still recall the glory of past civilizations. Their dimensions incorporate the wisdom of antiquity. Study of the Great Pyramid of Cheops reveals it to be no less than a scale model of Earth, precisely documenting our planet's size, shape, speed and distance from the sun. It even measures the 26,000 year cycle of the Earth's wobble, the procession of the equinoxes. Our monument will be in proportion to this "first wonder of the ancient world." That our Founders referred to the pyramid in their symbol of America, illustrates their understanding that the American Experiment would be an enduring monument to human wisdom. In a sense, the pyramid is like a pedestal or stage upon which is displayed the radiant capstone, the real "star of the show." In order to always complement its bright summit, the base will be both reflective and translucent, creating a spectacular sight, day and night. The Capstone The apex of our pyramid is totally unique: distinct from its base and separated by a pronounced gap, it is composed of a finer substance. The designers of the Great Seal explained in their Law of 1782: "The pyramid signifies Strength and Duration; the Eye over it & the Motto allude to the many signal interpositions of Providence in favour of the American cause." Most realizations (artistic renditions) depict the eye quite literally as a human eye and eyebrow. We have come to see it in a different light. In symbolizing Providence, we feel that a radiance or brilliance of light to represent Divine Guidance is in accord with the Founders' intent to indicate that the building of America is directed by and toward the highest wisdom imaginable. In translating the two dimensional image (eye in the triangle) into a three dimensional structure (radiant capstone), we seek to most effectively capture the spirit of the symbol while at the same time to create a monument of utmost beauty. The pyramid-shaped capstone will appear to float above its base and be made totally of light – light that seems alive and moving, with depth and distance. It should be the most beautiful light possible, with subtle reflections and powerful expansions that draw the eye from miles around. This is one of the great challenges of the monument and why perhaps it has never been attempted before. An engineering competition will attract the genius of our world as we search for the technology and artistry to achieve the vision of this marvelous light. Interior: Design and Function Upon entering the monument, visitors will arrive near the center of the main floor, where their first impression will be the uplifting grandeur of the vast central section which rises the full height of the base. A shower of sparkling light streams down from the capstone through the ceiling to the floor, where it illuminates the statue of a young woman rising from the sea. She is emblematic of the current wave of new Americans from the Pacific Rim. Her outstretched arms hold a jeweled globe of our beautiful blue planet, upon which spills the dazzling light. Spiraling around the central gallery, the story of America unfolds as visitors ascend the evolutionary display that begins with the discovery and settlement of our nation. Visitors continue until they reach the present time and arrive at the top of the pyramid base. Here a spectacular observation deck provides a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean on one side, our panoramic metropolis on the other, and above, the glowing apex of the monument. In the evening, the deck can serve as an exclusive meeting and dining area served by visiting chefs, who bid for the honor of creating menus for a season. From the gap. visitors can also see the wonderful gardens that surround the monument, each side reflecting the style and variety of horticulture from the four quarters of the earth. From the relaxing vantage point of the gardens, visitors can enjoy the grandeur of the monument, and appreciate its significance. Just as America is peopled by immigrants from the four corners of the world, the four sides of the monument merge at the summit and vividly capture the spirit of "E Pluribus Unum" – Out of Many, One – the message carried by the eagle on our Great Seal. The corners of the monument will house the massive projection screens. Using the latest interactive technology, the story of America can be told in an entertaining and illuminating manner – for the benefit of foreign visitors as well as our own citizens. And this story can be presented from different approaches, with emphasis on varying topics according to the needs of the audiences: whether an ethnic group, a student group, or the general public. As a modern museum, the monument will be a popular way to learn about our country. Its interactive systems will let visitors explore the areas of information they choose. Today, an educational crisis exists in teaching and learning United States history. To help students comprehend the flow of history, the interior layout of the monument will provide an overall framework that graphically shows the continuity and wholeness of our history. The monument will be the showcase for making our history both comprehensible and enjoyable. After all, it is our story. Let's tell it right.