September 11, 2001
Friends, Family:
In light of the tragedy which has struck our nation this week, I feel that sending out an update of my last weekend in France, as if all were normal, would seem heartless or insensitive. I still wrote one, however, to keep myself distracted, and it will be available on my website (as will they all) once I return to the US. Since my return flight tomorrow is with Delta, an American carrier, to Philadelphia, it is currently operating on schedule. This could change before tomorrow, however, if any unforeseen security risks arise, and I could potentially be stuck here indefinitely. While this is a scary prospect for me, my own difficulties as a result of this tragedy are nothing compared to those who lost lives and loved ones.
France and indeed all of Europe is reacting with similar shock and dismay. France has stepped up security measures all over the country - in the subways, there are signs and announcements to stay with your baggage and to report any abandoned items immediately; at airports, no passengers on any flights leaving from France are allowed to have carry-on bags, except small purses, in addition to other security measures; and at post offices - I had to give ID to send a package to the US yesterday. Today at noon (6am EDT) Europe will observe 3 minutes of silence during which all radio stations will play "Imagine" by John Lennon.
In closing, let us keep our hearts and minds together in this dark time, and reach out to help the victims and their families. I hope all who receive this email are safe, and my peace and love be with you all.