I continue to be shaken and angered by all that I see on social media, and what is being reported on the news. George Floyd’s murder has inspired Black Lives Matter demonstrations here. White UK residents seem confused.
I am feeling driven to educate myself and have participated in webinars over these last few weeks. Nothing I write or express will move anything forward in this moment. My virtual shopping carts are full of books that are sold out. It seems many of us are eager to educate ourselves and broaden our perspectives. I hope that’s the case.
I don’t actually know what’s waiting for me back in the states. Not in a real way. I know that I am feeling more ready to return, than I did a few months ago.
I headed out to the shops today, and it was a chaotic shit show. There were moments when I actually could not move out of crowds or make my way down the street. I avoided the indoor mall, thinking I would less likely be surrounded by people, but it was the opposite. I went into one tourist shop to buy gifts to take home, and then made my way back to the car. I passed through the indoor mall to head back to the car park. Taped out spaces and directional arrows kept people moving and in safe zones. It was all quite predictable and felt safe.
I came home angry, exhausted, and if I’m being honest, fairly freaked out.
My clothing and my reusable shopping bags were thrown into the wash while I showered. A late lunch, some bad television, and plans to stay up late and watch movies has helped me to settle. I will knit and do online puzzles of Belfast.
I know how privileged, how fortunate I am, to be up on a mountain with kind people and a multitude of animals.
Brooklyn to Belfast 