It’s a dark and sad time in Minnesota this week. Tensions have risen, actions have been taken, people have been hurt, and everyone is in a state of shock. Our state is filled with a wonderful diversity of people which adds to the richness of this place. We are proud of our lakes, our rivers, our towns and cities. We take on the challenge of hard winters that linger late into spring, snowfalls that bury is in feet of snow, and subzero temperatures that settle in for weeks. Now we are facing the challenge of grieving losses – loss of life, loss of property, loss of respect. Sadly there are business owners, apartment dwellers, and many people that have had their places burned and have been displaced through no fault of their own. The losses are many and spread throughout our cities. We are mourning and many of us are saddened that our state has been rocked by the extent and severity of this week’s events, and it will take time for us to mend.
Change is inevitable in life. We will grieve and struggle, and we will get through this, and I sincerely hope that this week’s news gets replaced with hope and understanding, love and respect.
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The news reached here and as a Minnesotan I hurt with sadness at what is happening. I watched in horror as E. Lake street was burned and businesses broken into and felt frustrated that I couldn’t help somehow. I have been into many of the businesses on that street and loved spending time there when I was in Minneapolis. The art community there on Lake street is forward thinkers and I am sure they will provide a bright way forward to both E and W Lake street as they rebuild. Sending love and peace and hope to all my fellow Minnesotans in this time of crisis.
It has been a tough time. Like others, I’m hoping that good comes out of all this pain. Sadly the recovery will take a much longer time than the destruction, but there truly are more good people than there are bad, and I believe the residents will (and already are) rallying behind those that have lost so much. Love, peace, and hope – as you said – are what we all need.