I don't know about you guys, but I am feeling super depressed about the frequency of mass shootings in the US. J and I feel more and more certain each day that it's time to take concrete steps toward moving back to Zurich. I long to live somewhere I feel safe again. Yes, there is terrorism in Europe. But 300 times more Americans have been killed by other Americans with guns this year than people were killed in the Paris attacks. A friend of mine who is also repatriating after nearly a decade in Switzerland put it perfectly in a message on Facebook: "I'm so sad at my own country's lack of democracy, yet so wanted to enjoy being back here. My heart is tired. Do you know what I mean?"
I know exactly what she means. Polls show that the majority of Americans support stricter gun laws and yet nothing happens. That's not very democratic. Like my friend, I also wanted to enjoy being back here in the US, but with big issues like the economy and senseless gun violence, I find that I can't. I also miss a million little things about our life in Zurich. As time goes on, I find it harder and harder to imagine not going back. I just hope we can get over all the hurdles that lie between us and a life there again. As happy as that makes me, it makes me sad, too. My heart is tired. Do you know what I mean?
So, I hope you'll enjoy your weekend. See you back here Monday. xo
SO lucky that you have an option to move out of the country! It has been a stressful year as a parent for sure. But we also have to remain optimistic that goodness will prevail. Or at least that's what I have to keep telling myself. Peace to you and yours.
ReplyDeleteDid you see this? So sad http://www.businessinsider.com/bodyguard-bulletproof-blanket-for-kids-2014-6
ReplyDeleteWhen I was a teacher, we had an in-service day totally dedicated to training for active shooters. The local police came in to fire blanks in the halls so we wouldn't be startled by the sound of gunshots. Then, we had to practice attacking the police as though they were shooters. It was really comprehensive training and more than most teachers were getting, but it's scary that this has become the norm.
I TOTALLY know what your friend means. It gets harder and harder to imagine moving back. My heart is tired too.
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