The Manchester Attack
Having grown up in Northern Ireland I've always grown up surrounded by bomb scares and evacuation, so these things never really had an affect on me. However, Manchester was a different ball game - a completely unexpected attack that shook the very core of Manchester.
Although I'm lucky enough to not have been directly exposed to the bomb, the attack left the citizens of Manchester reeling. I have friends in real life and Twitter who were caught up in the attack & thankfully they escaped with no injuries.
I feel selfish when I think about discussing my feelings and concerns during a time when so many families and loved ones are grieving over the loss of a life. I can't get my mind away from those families. I've read countless back stories, personal encounters and family tributes and each one brings tears to my eyes each time. It's unfair and cruel that so many innocent people had their lives cut short because of a coward. That's what he was - a terrorist and a coward. Not a human being. Not a person. Not worth my time naming or discussing.
I felt terrified, but trust me when I say that there is nothing more comforting than the compassion and love that the people of Manchester have displayed. I've lived in Manchester for two years now and I don't have a single bad word to say about the citizens of Manchester. In times of tragedy, it's important to also reflect on the positive and therefore I believe it's important to commend the kind spirited and the brave.
To the emergency services, volunteers & eventsec,
You did, not only your city, but your country proud. You reacted quickly to assist in the careful evacuation procedure and cordoned off the area to ensure the safety of concert goers. You attended and assisted the injured, limiting the number of fatalities. You worked throughout the night to protect Manchester with little/no thought about getting a break or when you would get home. I cannot thank you enough for providing reassurance and accurate information to families, loved ones and the public. You truly do make Manchester special.
To the citizens of Manchester,
From offering a place to sleep, lifts home and even queuing up to donate blood the next day, you have been truly outstanding. Twitter was swarmed with images of missing people and offers of cups of tea to those who were caught up in the attack. The entire society came together to support those in need, hosting vigils, creating crowdfunding pages, holding one minute silences and even chanting positive messages to uplift the community. You are what makes Manchester, Manchester.
To those caught up in the attack or those who lost a loved one,
I cannot even begin to imagine how you must be feeling. No one can tell you how to feel, or how long you should feel like that. I am so sorry that what was supposed to be a brilliant night ended in utter chaos, you did not deserve it. You have acted with bravery and strength, you will get through this. My only advice is that you should talk to someone about how you feel about and after the attack. I know how negatively withholding your emotions can impact you, just know you have so many people who are here for you and who are willing and happy to listen.
Manchester has proven to me that nothing will stop it.
Nothing can stop the hustling and bustling of the Arndale.
Nothing can stop the people from being courteous and friendly.
Nothing can divide the great city of Manchester because "that's the Mancunian way".
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