Today’s three stops on the journey from Charlotte, NC to Augusta, Georgia were just as diverse as yesterday’s.

Just a few minutes down the road from last night’s hotel is the Billy Graham Library and I was the first visitor in the parking lot this morning. The recent death of “America’s Pastor” brought more relevance to the visit but he is so widely admired and respected that I wanted to learn more about him anyway. As a scientist I recognize the beauty and order in nature, both physical and living, and wonder why the laws of nature are as they are. However, I have not found answers that satisfy me in any religion and am a firm agnostic. The library does a good job of teaching about Reverend Graham’s life, beliefs and evangelism while, for the most part, not being “preachy”. There is one video at the end which tries to persuade visitors to accept Christ but there was no hint of judgement when I was asked about my relationship with Christ on the way out and described my perspective.  Billy’s extraordinary life, integrity and kindness came across loud and clear in stark contrast to many other religious leaders who fail to live up to the ideals they espouse.

The other two stops were in Columbia, South Carolina’s capital. The first was a quick photo opportunity at two oversized art pieces by artist and Columbia native Blue Sky. His first piece, completed in 1975, is a large mural on the side of a building called Tunnelvision (see photo below). Just a few yards away is Busted Plug Plaza, a 40 foot high sculpture of a damaged fire hydrant completed in 2001 (photo below).

Last stop was the South Carolina State House. I had planned to take a guided tour but all of the tours in the afternoon were taken up by school groups so I simply wandered around on my own. Since the legislature is in session the place was humming and it was actually quite difficult to get through the staffers and lobbyists in group conversations in the main lobby. Obviously, with no guided tour I did not learn as much as I would have hoped to and the stop was relatively short. This is good, however, as I have yet to plan tomorrow, or the rest of the trip, in any detail and will need the time.

Click for the Road video and Map

The Billy Graham Library is designed to resemble a farm, a reference to his upbringing on a local farm.

The family home has been moved here from its original location just a few miles away. Billy and his wife, Ruth, are buried at the library.

The Tunnelvision mural and Busted Plug Plaza sculpture by Blue Sky.

The South Carolina flag in flowers with the State House behind.

The Senate session did not start until later so I was able to visit that chamber.

The house was in session so I only got a view from the public gallery.

Between the two chambers is a large lobby area that was bustling with activity.