monoceros blogsI recently read something I'm not supposed to read, and I don't know how to write about it here without compromising my position on how I got to read the something in the first place. I'll try to be as vague and as detailed as I can.
The something is actually a letter from a person working in Madrid. He wrote of the victims - immigrant workers from 11 different countries who died far from their families, the dreams of university students, the weddings that won't take place now. He also wrote of those who worked in the midst of the pain and turmoil - doctors, school children, taxi drivers, fire fighters, the police, people who became blood donors on the spot, who gave comfort to persons they had never met before, who threw blankets into the streets for victims. He wrote too that it was Madrid on Thursday morning, but it had been New York in 2001, and it might be anywhere else tomorrow or some time in the future. (I'd also add that it was Bali in 2002.)
It seems sad that the human spirit tends to shows its true heightened form in moments of tragedy but it's good to know that we are capable of such work. It seems even sadder that we've plunged ourselves into this hellhole of fear. These days I actually think about how safe a place is when I try to pick a holiday destination. Egypt's risky, Istanbul is probably fine, parts of Ireland used to be no-nos. People will start thinking about safety on trains now.
I lament the senseless deaths and wish only for better days ahead. Peace may come one day, probably the day that aliens invade earth and force us to put up a united front. Then again, we might have some dirty players trying to strike deals with the aliens.
Posted by Monoceros at March 17, 2004 5:03 PMit's all quite senseless...indeed and very sad.
there are people who'd like to think that war would end in peace...
Am glad it didn't occur when I was there in Dec! We're thinking of Switzerland by rail this summer. Wondering if it's safe.
Posted by: irene heng at March 22, 2004 11:00 PMI just spent 11 days in Egypt. It's not too risky...rather safe as one cannot avoid noticing the presence of 'Tourist Police'
everywhere. What had somewhat of an impact while i was there was the Israeli killing of the Hammas leader -- which sparked off much anger in Egypt. But our tourguide assured us that any unrest would not be the sort that affects tourists negatively. and on 20th March, anniversary of the day that U.S. attacked Iraq -- i was stuck in downtown Cairo traffic cos the government had closed roads. All demonstrations were peaceful. And remember -- you are not American, as a Chinese (most probably mistaken for Japanese or Korean -- happened a lot to me), that's a very low risk group for any kind of terrorist attack. the risks you would encounter would be wily Cairenes asking for baksheesh (tips) or trying to sell you souvenirs at ridiculously high prices. Risky for the wallet.
(If you'd still like to consider Egypt as a holiday destination, i can pass you the info. did it on a budget and saw lots)