I was meeting someone who was new in town, the text came through with a time and place. I hesitated before I replied, how to word it, how to give an explanation without sounding harsh.
“8.30 is perfect. I haven’t been back to Villagio since the fire, would you mind if we met somewhere else?”
The reply was instant.
“Sure, sorry, we came after the fire.”
It’s a personal thing. I know everyone feels differently about it and I don’t begrudge anyone for going back there – but we won’t be. If it had been my children, I know I’d want the place shut down. I’d want some sort of memorial. I’d want somewhere to go, a sign of respect and remembrance. I’d want somewhere I could stand without the sound of cash registers, the sight of people eating burgers, or shopping for a new pair of sneakers.
As time goes by there’s been more and more new people. People who arrive with a clean slate, no memories of billowing smoke, distraught parents, and a city in shock. People who haven’t heard the stories, who can’t picture the faces.
But even without personal memories, we can remember them.
Today, everyday, but especially today, we remember them.
13 beautiful children.
19 people in total.
We will never forget.
Sending love. I remember when you broke the news on twitter. We cared – from this side of the world. Thankyou for remembering
Sure there are many other places to share a coffee. Newbies will understand. X
It was any parent’s worst nightmare, and you are right, we need to remember. It makes me go cold every time I hear reference to it, and my heart breaks for the all the families who lost someone.
People have told me “get over it… people have moved on”! Every time I decline an invitation because it just happens to be at that place… I tried, I admit, I tried going there… I ended up with clammy hands, shaken all over… couldn’t breath and felt all chocked up and dizzy!… It’s hard, especially when you know those who have perished… you know… you have memories… I’m with you, Kristen! I won’t forget! and whenever I pass Villaggio while driving down Waab street, I will keep on muttering my prayer and sending my thoughts out to the beautiful angels who left us that awful morning and their families…
I read your blog from that day every year, and from halfway across the world, I remember too.
I’m relieved to know I am not the only one that refuses to visit this mall again. Too much sadness attached to it.