The City of Lights Remains Dimmed

The last time I lived through a major tragedy was in 2001, when El Salvador was struck by three big earthquakes that killed almost 1000 people. That was a natural disaster. Today in Paris, we mourn all the victims who died at the hands of ISIS. This is a terrorist attack.

It is very difficult to comprehend what happened here last night. It has been reported that 127 people have been confirmed dead with almost 200 more people injured. To think that 127 families will receive news that their loved ones were murdered while they innocently attended a concert at Bataclan or shared drinks with their friends at Le Petit Cambodge is heartbreaking. But to me, the hardest thing to understand is that the shooting that took place at the local restaurant in the 10th district is just around the corner from my regular bar. My friends and I go there every weekend and throughout the week, religiously. I was supposed to meet a few friends there last night, but I was asked to babysit at the last minute. After I heard the news last night, I couldn't sleep. The calls and messages started to pour in (which I appreciate it) and then it was very hard to close my eyes. It was also very hard to stay at home when I could have been out there helping people in any way.

Now, I sit here, and I try to imagine my family's reaction if they had received some horrible news like the families of those 127 victims-- it is impossible. It is impossible to understand the pain and suffering all those affected by this tragedy are going through. Moreover, It is also impossible to put into perspective the hate someone must have in their hearts to want to kill so many innocent people. I woke up this morning knowing that Paris was not a safe place anymore. This is an opinion shared by many Parisians at this time.

I decided to go into the city today to see what it was like after last night's tragedy. Paris was unrecognizable. There was so much pain and sadness in everyone's face. You could also feel it in the air. Many restaurants and businesses were closed as per the  declared "state of emergency"by Francois Hollande, President of France. The borders have been closed also. This is to prevent anyone from leaving the country. The city that once shined bright is now a dark place. The Eiffel Tower is closed. Its lights are off in honor of those who died. The booths at the Christmas market in Champs-Elysees are all closed. There is far less people wondering the streets, but there is heavy presence from the French military and the police department. Paris has dimmed its lights today.

#PrayForParis

Memorial outside of  Bataclan Theatre.