Last night, I sat in front of the TV, mesmerized by the images of the collapsed 35W bridge over the Mississippi River. I relieved the tension of it all by shouting at the Fox and CNN broadcasters as they mis-pronounced street names and locations, mis-quoted distances, etc. I further shouted as they tried to sensationalize the story by tossing out words like "terrorism" and "under construction" over and over and over.
Though I'm 600 miles away, Minneapolis is still home, and two of my three children still live there. I was one of the lucky ones -- my near and dear were not close to the situation. My youngest daughter (aka Sweet Jenny-woo) called as soon as she was able to get through, to let me know everyone was ok. The closest call we had was that is the route their father (my ex) takes to and from work, but he used an alternate route that day. So, we are ok. (And thanks to all who have written to ask.)
I watch the video clips, I search for new photo images, I read the online stories. I left Minneapolis 10 years ago, but it is still my hometown. Even amidst the ruin that's been broadcast around the world, I look through the dust and think "That's a beautiful city." I find myself still feeling that same sense of pride I had as a resident. I like the fact that most of the film clips I've seen have shown calm, intelligent people, responding with dignity to a gruesome situation. I'm proud to be from Minneapolis, maybe even more than I was before this.
Though this has set back my little bridge phobia recovery by about 30 years, I'm ok; my loved ones are ok; my hometown will be ok.
I’m still Lolo’s Child, but pivoting a bit to embrace one of her battle cries, “Another Adventure.” Sharing life challenges in my seventh decade, but occasionally sharing art and joy, as well.
3 comments:
I'm glad everyone is okay. I have avoided the coverage of this accident as I tend to get sucked into these things and that's something I don't need to do right now. It's just tragic.
Glad to know that your near and dear ones are ok. But feel for those unfortunate people.
We've already 'talked', so you know I was really affected when I realized that your girls could have been in harm's way. I'm so grateful for their safety & their father's safety, & so incredibly sad for those who were injured or who lost their lives. BREATHE, MY DEAR FRIEND. The Goddess - the Great Spirit - the One who oversees all things - was watching over your family!
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