Nothing can diminish the extent of the tragic loss that has met the Italian people in and around L'Aquila in the wake of the recent massive earthquake and aftershocks. Buildings can be rebuilt and reinforced, but the echoes of the grieving survivors will be heard for years to come. From the midst of all that destruction arises a particularly awe-inspiring story worthy of notice.
Everyone reacts to an emergency situation differently. Some people panic. Some people throw up their hands and give up hope. Some people simply make the best of a terrible situation. My hat is off to the 98-year-old Italian woman who chose to crochet in bed until rescuers could dig her out from underneath all the rubble that covered her when the earthquake destroyed the city of L'Aquila. I bow my head to the strength of such a triumphant and courageous spirit, as well as to all those rescue workers who continue their grueling efforts.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7988423.stm
I found an update to this story today that has a video of the woman who was rescued. This article says that she was knitting. Anyone who has knitted or crocheted knows that there is a difference, but the details are insignificant. The point is that this 98-year-old triumphant spirit not only survived, but kept her hands and mind busy on something other than the piles of rubble surrounding her. She found a way to engage in something enjoyable to her instead of panicking and giving up hope.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7989938.stm
In response to the immense grief of the survivors, I penned this haiku:
The earth shudders for mere seconds.
World suddenly bleak.
Even the flowers are silenced.
Editor of AGNADL
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