It’s been all over the news, but I thought I would announce it here and let you know I’m okay. As some of you know, I’m a student working on my BFA at Northern Illinois University. Today there was a shooting and a few people died, 22 were wounded. It was pretty scary. The odd thing is that I didn’t even know anything was going on. My phone broke this morning and I was just going to go to the sprint store after I finished up. I was in my studio which is on the other side of campus painting the afternoon away. I was feeling really good about building two stretches, making a break through with my painting, working on my artist residency application.
I was thinking about what a nice day it was. Warmer than usual. Wonderful blue sky… what the heck are all these helicopters doing up there? Well, they were news and medic…. and went on my merry way to the local hardware store. Trixy, the owner and my friend, was like “I’m so glad to see that you are okay” and I was like “you too?” and she told me about the shooting, shocked that I didn’t know. I went and got my phone fixed, and was immediately flooded with ‘are you okay, why aren’t you calling back? are you alive?” messages…. Jason was totally freaked out as were my parents… I am so upset about upsetting jason and my folks. It’s slowly sinking in and I guess I just don’t know how to feel, so I just feel numb. I guess just that it’s my town, my school. The typical “this doesn’t happen to me” attitude.
Classes are canceled until further notice. No one is allowed on campus so I can’t get into my studio. I’m sad for the family and friends. Seeing how worried my own family was has stuck in my mind and I can’t even imagine what it must be like for the families of those who died or were wounded. It is truly horrifying.
I am okay though.
I’ll see you all on Saturday morning.
Well wishes to all those in the NIU community.
I mostly just lurk and read but I wanted to say that I’m so glad that you’re okay. I’ve been reading about it in the news and it’s so scary. I worry about my own kids daily.
Hugs & Prayers to all affected.
Hugs to you!
Very glad you’re ok, I hadn’t heard about it yet but am relieved you weren’t injured. Take care of yourself, especially as the shock begins to wear off and reality sets in. You’d better keep that phone working!
I’m in the UK and hadn’t heard about the shootings you mention, but it’s a really scarey thing. I teach and I can’t even start to imagine that happening at my college. Glad you’re okay :-)
I’ve never commented before, I don’t think, but I didn’t know where you were a student – how unspeakably awful. I’m so sorry, but I’m glad you are ok.
(About the weather – I live in New England, and a lot of people I know still get this feeling on certain Fall days “Oh, this is the way the weather was on September 11.” Certain things just don’t go away.)
We are so glad that you are ok. To hear your voice last night…let’s just say there was nothing sweeter to hear. I agree with Michelle’s comment as the shock wears off and reality sinks in, you take care of yourself. we are praying for you and all affected by this tragic event.
Like the others I am happy you are okay and unharmed physically. My heart goes out to all those affected.
Hi. I am just another lurker wanting to say that I am glad you are ok. I dont live that far from you and this is so scary to realize it is that close to home. My daughter is wanting to attend NIU in a year and half. This really brings the world a little too close to home.
The one that mentioned you dont forget things like the weather and such is right. When 911 happened I remember making an afghan. Every year when I take it out it makes me think back to that day and the days following.
Be safe!
Oh my… I am sure little angels were inspiring and protecting you that day. Spread my deepest sympathy for all the students. I had a gun pointed to my head once when I was a little girl (robbery at a groecry store)…my mom just said very slowly and in low voice – “come to me” – and the guy let me go….I did not even know the thieve was behind me…Today years later, I cannot stop thanking G-d for all the years that he gave me that day.
Let’s be all be thankfull for eachother.
I am so glad you are ok. I will be praying for you all!
HOLA, I visited your blog a few weeks ago, and I liked it, so today I decided to visit you. OH I’m shock when I read your post…I knew that but I didn’t know you are there!!! Glad you are ok. Saludos desde Barcelona.
I am so happy you are ok. Hopefully a little time at your parents will help even things out a bit for you.
I’ve been out of touch for a while (too long hospital stay) and do not believe I can adequately express my relief that you are okay. Please take more time than you think you need for this horror to be integrated.
heard that on the news.. glad that ur not on the scene. keep on crafting!
xoxo
cima