My daughter and I visited Trolley Square on Saturday night. It was the first time either of us had been there since the shootings a few weeks before.
It was my daughter that suggested that we go to there. Obviously, the media had covered the killings (5 dead, 4 critically injured) for days, from a host of different angles. I, too, had felt that it would be important to go to Trolley Square and visit the businesses as a show of support.
When we got there, the parking lot was full. I do not recall seeing Trolley Square so busy for a long time. We quickly found a place, and started in to the building. We immediately passed the store, "Cabin Fever", where 4 of the 5 victims were killed. We passed it and went to the fountain, on the south end of Trolley Square. A makeshift shrine had been built, and we slowly walked around the fountain looking at the beautiful flowers, candles, cards and notes that hundreds of people have taken the time to bring. Some flowers were old, others fresh. Different stages of life. Some cards were beautifully purchased with a small amount of writing, while other notes were written on a piece of paper. Some quoted poems, others scriptures or songs. Notes from little children, who had written their thoughts and drew a picture. All were straight from the heart. It was a wonderful outpouring of love and compassion, each showing their grief for those who had been effected by such a senseless act.
After we spent some time at the fountain, we walked through the shops and eventually ended up in "Cabin Fever". A small store, which sells cards and novelty items. As we entered the store, I couldn't help but think that this was where 4 people were innocently killed. Yet I felt that I needed to go in, buy something, and show my support to the owner, who certainly has to be struggling with "carrying on" at this time. As I picked up a few cards and things and was paying for the items, I told the gentleman behind the counter that we just felt like we had to come there to show our support and I asked him how he was doing. He replied that it had certainly been a struggle, yet he was very grateful for the outpouring of love and support which had been shown to him and his business. I wanted to hug him, and yet a purchase and a few words to say that we were thinking of him seemed to suffice.
I am glad that I chose to visit. It was hard, yet healing and I hope that with time, those whose lives have changed from this awful event will someday find peace and solace to continue to carry on and rememeber those whose lives were cut short by this senseless act of violence.
