Studying abroad gives students an unbelievable experience. An experience that is hard to describe and hard to replicate. The cultural immersion deepens respect of a different way of life; it deepens the connection of humanity. Unfortunately, much too often, the simple respect of humanity is taken advantage of. And seeing this first-hand is an indescribable experience.
Throughout the greater part of May, I had the opportunity to study abroad in the United Kingdom. During my stay, I was able to experience the culture, meet the individuals, and view the scenery of Wales, Scotland and England. I was humbled by the relationships I was able to build and the memories I was able to make. The engagement with the traditions and festivals, food and drink, and people and places truly deepened by appreciation of culture and humanity. On the other hand, I was also humbled by the acts of terror that took place during my trip.
On May 22nd, the United Kingdom was rattled by the bombing in Manchester, England. The bombing, which took place after the Ariana Grande concert, killed 22 individuals and wounded countless others.
The senseless attack reverberated over the entire country within minutes. Being an hour away at that moment, I was awoken to my phone vibrating with the news. Moments later, my eyes, filled with tears, were glued to my computer screen, reading the latest updates; thinking of the victims and their families and friends.
The next morning, the United Kingdom reacted to the attacks and prepared for another. The government updated the security threat warning from substantial to critical, the highest level of threat. In the words of the media, “an attack was expected imminently.” Terrorism has proven to be contagious. The country was not about to take a chance with another attack.
Aftershocks could be seen throughout the country for many days after the attacks. The horrific event mainstreamed every conversation. Every newspaper was headlined with the details, every news station was fixated on the information, and every citizen (and visitors) were on the edge of their seat. Police swat vehicles paroled the streets, filled with multiple armed officers.
Pairs of officers strode up and down public walkways with large weaponry. Police officials were affixed at every public transportation hub. Large tourist locations, for which organized large crowds, such as the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, were postponed. Our bags were consistently opened and checked. Our moves were monitored.
Although the sites of these precautions were extremely terrifying at first glance, a moment of deeper thought allowed its purpose to sink in. We were safer than ever. Those individuals are risking their lives to protect ours; those individuals see the value in protecting humanity.
Looking back on my experience in the United Kingdom, I am thankful to have witnesses the rekindling of spirit that took place. Being a part of the rebuilding was a truly unforgettable experience. I was able to witness first hand citizens of the country join together to combat evil with a greater good. The humanity that was desired to be destroyed was resurfacing stronger than ever. The country united around the showing that it was only broken, not destroyed.
Days after I arrived safely in the United States, I learned of three additional terror driven attacks in London. The three attacks were at locations I was days before. My heart ached at the shear thought of another devastating thing happening to such a respectable country.
Unfortunately, terror threat is very high in London and other parts of the United Kingdom. It pains me beyond belief to justify that. My heart will forever be with the victims of terror; my heart will forever be with the UK.
I will never understand how individuals deem their cause greater than the cause of humanity.
