I took this photo as a full-time LDS missionary in Elizabeth, New Jersey about two and a half years ago. I chose the pose and background to capture the paradox of the historical value and modern development of the United States portrayed by an 18th-century cemetery on one side of the street, and McDonald’s and a nail salon on the other. This location is right around the corner from the location where Ahmad Khan Rahami’s pipe bombs were investigated around 12: 30 a.m. on Monday.
Although Elizabeth may not be regarded as a popular tourist site or get-away spot, its American history dates back to before the Revolution, and the area today reflects the transformation of American culture and values in many ways.
What could these recent events in Elizabeth and surrounding areas symbolize? What could they mean for our future?
BYU Kennedy Center Live 
That’s fascinating. Elizabeth contrasts two different time periods so simply. With the recent events in the area, it will now also showcase a darker piece of our history. The old city gave way to modern development; the city will continue to grow, but will also have the stain of the age of terrorism, which we are all living through and fighting against. It’s incredible that so much history can happen in just a few blocks.