We all know what has been happening in London these past few months unless you were living under a rock. Don’t get my headline wrong, I am appreciative of people being concerned. But, please stop.

Yes, London is “terrifying” right now, but so is the rest of the world if you haven’t noticed that yet. I am no more safe in London than I am in St. Louis. Terrorist attacks are planned but never expected. They could happen anywhere, at any time. Yet, every time I mention my vacation to London, people gasp in horror and exclaim, “Be safe there. Anything could happen and I don’t want you to be in a city alone during that.”

Thanks, but no thanks. I am worried about terrorist attacks and do not deny they exist, and for the people affected by them, they are actually terrifying. But, just because I am going to London, doesn’t mean I will be affected by an attack. I am taking necessary precautions and not just saying “terrorist attacks are made up” and running around trying to piss off everyone.

I have been to numerous concerts and cities, and no one has ever been this shocked of somewhere I am going. I was getting pounds the other day at the bank and the guy was hesitant to give me my money because I told him I am going to London. I do welcome their concern for me, but fear is not what will help me in time of need, nor anyone.

I want to enjoy London, a city I have dreamt of going to since I was 5, but as each hour passes nearing my departure, I become more anxious. Why should something that someone said to me, affect me so much? It’s because we know exactly what people are capable of, and we now know it can happen to any random person on the street. However, I don’t want the fear of the unknown to cloud my enjoyment of the known and environment. I want to enjoy London and I don’t want someone to be skeptical of why I am so happy to be going there.

I am thankful of everyone’s concerns for me, but just because I dismiss your fears, does not mean I do not understand them. I am more worried that I will be consumed by the thoughts of an attack, and miss such a beautiful city London is. I want to fill my time with peace and admiration, not fear and regret.

So, as I pack my bags, I want to thank everyone for their concern, but will kindly put it to the back of my mind as I frolic through the Tate, taking in every piece of art I can. Please do not worry about me over there, and I will attempt to post photos as much as I can, documenting every tasty food and hilarious treasure I find over there. Thank you all for your support leading up to this amazing trip.