A Beautiful World........

After much debate this evening, Julie as I headed to Annapolis to grab a bite to eat. Our original plan had been to shop first then imbibe in some alchohol and food but alas we got started too late so plans changed and eating made its way to the top of the list. We'd decided on Red Robin and just put our name in when a woman and her two children came running into the restaurant. The woman proceeded to scream "There are two people down, call the police, call the police, call 911." After a rush for the exits from a few startled and scared families, Julie picked up her phone and began dialing 911. After an exceedingly long amount of time, Jule finally got through to hear "Due to the high volume of calls........"

Evidently, a suspect shot two people and an off-duty Federal Agent in the food court of Annapolis Mall (wjz reported). For those unfamiliar with the mall, the food court entrance is directly next to Red Robin. Needless to say there were many cops, state and local, as well as paramedics, and investigators rushing in an out of the entrance all while Jule and I are staring through from the windows of Red Robin as chaos ensued. Evidently the suspect was apprehended, according to news reports due to gun shot himself, because we were allowed to sit and eat, the mall was closed to incoming patrons but people were slowly trickling out.

Jule and I commented that its amazing how people react in such stressful situations. First, the irresponsibilty of the woman to run screaming into a restaurant. She scared many people and caused pandemonium at an entrance way. Secondly, the rush of the restaurant staff to secure the area and their customers while remaining calm and continuing to serve their establishment. Third, the incredible speed at which rumors started and people discussed the details of what happened. It's as if people need to rationalize the events and gather comfort and assurance from others around them that they are indeed safe. Fourth and last, the innate curiousity that people have when tragedy occurs. There were throngs of people milling about outside as if to get a peek. Later these people will go home and tell their friends "you'll never guess what I saw. I was right there." I have to admit Jule and I looked into the food court and Jule was tempted to talk to an officer. She refrained, they had better things to do.

It makes me sad and a bit ill to know that lives were forever changed tonight. People, getting ready for their holiday, instead, are going to hospitals to be with a family member. A man will go to jail. Parents will hug their children a little tighter and sons and daughters will call their parents and siblings to see where they are and hope they are safe. (I did) In this holiday time where we are to reflect on the goodness and joy of the world, where there is to be good tidings and peace on earth, I am disappointed.

So, to the few who read this, know that I am a bit humbled by this experience and wish you all well tonight. I'll say a prayer.

http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/11/18/maryland.shootings.ap/index.html If you watch the video link you can see where the Red Robin is in relation to the melee that occurred.

I received this e-mail today, it made me cry.

A wise man once said, "We are what we are because we are what we are."
Sounds dumb doesn't it?? But, try to relate it your own situation.
Jenny is what she is because SHE decided long ago to do what she loves today.
Aly is what she is because SHE decided their was something more she wanted to accomplish.
Meggy is what she is because SHE decided not to let adversity stop her.
You all are what you are because you are all strong, determined individuals who decided that you will not let anything stand in your way.
And, because of that, I am extremely proud of each of you.

Love
Dad

To which I respond:
I am what I am because my parents loved me.