NOW WHAT?

This is horrible… and heartbreaking. People, a lot of them children, out to have a good time and witness what I can only imagine was an amazing performance from Ariana Grande. Then mass chaos and fear. Right after the show, the lights went up in the Manchester Arena that held 21,000 fans, and then an explosion. A suicide bomber set off what was basically a nail bomb just outside of the arena, killing 22 and injuring another 59. The who, why, and how in this situation will come throughout today I’m sure but how it makes me feel may not get better. My heart goes out to the families of the victims as well as those who survived and will have to live with those images in their mind for the rest of their lives.

I’d be lying if I didn’t say that these things make me a little nervous. Even before the Paris concert attack, I think twice when going to large events. While I refuse to let fear rule my activities, I make sure to be even more mindful than usual and pay attention to my surroundings. We cannot allow the actions of few to hinder our desire to enjoy life. I’m a math girl, so when I think about it logically, the odds are way higher that something will happen to me in my day-to-day normal activities. I love seeing live music way too much to let this actually stop me from attending.

I also cannot imagine what Ariana is going through. News reports this morning say that she is inconsolable and has postponed her European tour. Last night, Ariana said on Twitter: “broken. from the bottom of my heart, i am so so sorry. i don’t have words.”

I will just take this as another reminder to share my love with the people that are important to me and live every day to its fullest. Hugs to you all!

~Ballzer