Friday, March 11, 2011

The Big One

Today Japan experienced an 8.9 magnitude earthquake.

I was home at the time with Jude on the 5th floor of our 9 story apartment building. When the shaking started, I ignored it.  But as it intensified, Jude and I grabbed our bike helmets and hid under our dining room table.  After about 10 seconds of severe shaking, Jude started to cry and asked, "Mommy, are we going to die?"  As soon as the words came out of his mouth, I decided we weren't going to stay inside and wait to see what would happen.  We decided to run for it.  And we did just that.

I grabbed Jude's hand, and we ran out the door and headed for the stairs.  Our neighbor, with a newborn, was standing in the doorway of her apartment, crying.  I yelled, "Hurry, run!"  And, we did just that. 

We ran as fast as we possibly could, as fast as my little legs would move.  When we got into the stairway, others were running down, too.  I just kept running, and saying faster...faster...come on.  Once we made it to the first floor, we bolted out of the building and kept running until we were in the parking lot.

We were barefoot, wearing bike helmets, but safe.  And that's all that mattered.

After today, my world is different.  I see things clearer now. 

Nothing else matters, except knowing the ones you love are safe!

All I want to do is take the fear away from my son, but I can't when I'm too scared to go home, too!

Fear is a strange thing.  It grabs hold and won't let go.  But I hope it loosens its grip on Jude.  A 6 year old should never know fear like this!

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

I know you have stated that you guys are OK. Just want to say that we love you and are praying...trying to not let the media freak me out. Reading your Facebook status is some what comforting. Just want to know you guys are safe. You are a loving mother and did what you did as instinct, you are a brave, strong lady!

-Tiger

Anonymous said...

First thing I thought of when I heard about the earthquake in Japan was your family. Glad to know you are safe. Keeping yall in my prayers.

Big M

Anonymous said...

Oh, Friend! I can only imagine the fear you and your sweet boy were feeling. I have been thinking about you and your family and all of our friends since 1am when I woke up to 35 tweets about the situation over there. I am super-selfishly thankful that we are no longer there in our 6th floor apartment, but my heart is aching at the same time for all of you who have dealt with the fear of the last week, and especially the lst 24 hours. Sending virtual hugs and happy thoughts and prayers your way! Thanks for the FB updates; keep them coming!

Unknown said...

So glad you updated your blog. It is so good to hear you guys are safe. You and your family are in our prayers. If you need anything give us a call. Love you!

-AA & Judy
CastleCt

Sectre Hafit said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Sectre Hafit said...

Glad to read that you and your son are ok. Thought about you as soon as I heard about the tragedy. Your family and everyone else out there will be in my prayers.