Suddenly those red cups at Starbucks don't seem like such a big deal anymore, do they?
With the horrific massacre of innocent people who were simply enjoying a Friday night, we've been jolted back to reality. Back to what ultimately matters to all of us: Safety for those we love. In Paris or Podunk, we are again reminded that life is uncertain and out of our control. Terrorism is a violent act of cowardice inflicted on others who are going about their daily lives. And we're all in this together.
Terrorism does more than destroy lives and property. It scares us shitless. It destroys our sense of security and damages our trust in humanity. Could it happen here? To me? To my family? The answer is yes, even as we falsely look for reasons to believe otherwise. Terrorism isn't temporary.
We can't look away. In fact, these attacks make us see ourselves in a clearer light. Suddenly our values are front and center. We want to be home, with the people we cherish. We want to celebrate holidays and happy occasions. We want to let others know they're appreciated. We want to teach our children that even in the face of tragedy, goodness will prevail. We want peace. And because we feel overwhelming gratitude that we are safe for now, we can feel great compassion for those who were lost. And while we're at it, maybe do something kind for others nearby who are less fortunate. After all, we are so very blessed.
Countries come together to demonstrate support and compassion. For a while, global leaders agree to stand united, knowing each is vulnerable and may need to rely on the others. Probably sooner than expected. Edges soften as the world huddles together against a common enemy that seems unfathomable.
Paris has suffered two terrorist attacks this year. It was just January when we declared "We are all Charlie" after two angry terrorist brothers stormed the office of newspaper Charlie Hebdo, killing twelve people doing their jobs. Including the building caretaker who paused to answer when the shooters asked where to find the journalists. Recent years have brought attacks in Brussels, Norway, London, Madrid, Istanbul, Boston. No other country has lost 3,000 souls at once, but it could certainly happen again. Ay, there's the rub.
This Blix is not about the religious or political aspects about terrorism. It's not about whether some journalists invited themselves to be targets. It's not about who's at fault or what should be done. It's not about hate.
No, this Blix is about using this moment to reflect upon what is really important. To you. To the world. To the future. I'm betting the outrage about a blank red coffee cup seems absurd now. At least it should.
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