Tragedy

[arsinoi]

I intended my next entry to have been the chronicles of my trip to Japan but things got out of hand and I feel the need to communicate and describe the situation we have been living here since yesterday. What we live now can be described as the biggest tragedy Greece has had to face since the deadly earthquake of 1999. Greece is burning... again.

Comments

stay safe!

[anonymous]

Thinking of you Arsenoi. It must be horrible to watch your beautiful country in flames. I have family in Megara - which seems alright so far, but with so many fires springing up all over Greece, I am trying to keep up with the news. I live in California, USA. I used to visit Greece every other year. Sadly, the last time I visited Greece was Sept 10, 2001... the Sept 11 attacks turned the trip into rather a nightmare, and although I was treated well due to a Greek last name, I was left with a bad taste in my heart due to the celebrations about the tragedy in my home country. I still cannot fathom anyone celebrating the deaths of innocent workers. Despite that, as I read about the fires, I cry for your country (and the home of my ancestors). I recall all my earlier trips - the warmth of the people and the beauty of the countryside. Please try to stay safe -don't take any chances. As you say - you can re-build what is burnt, but life is precious. I send a prayer - God bless and keep you and yours safe from harm.

Re: stay safe!

[anonymous]

Thank you! The situation gets worse by the moment. Someone said we are living our own September 11th these days. I just hope the fires are put out quickly. Today a new fire broke out near us and we are engulfed in flames! They are heading for the Neda canyon, one of the most beautiful places in Greece with waterfalls. I went there every year and this time I couldn't! I want to cry! I still haven't prayed to the little church there! If things get out of hand we are ready to leave. Thanks again. I keep praying and hoping too!

Re: stay safe!

[arsinoi]

That was me! Forgot to log on!

[marilena_r]

You were caught near the fire? Oh my... And we were very close to Imitos when the fire broke out there... Hell.

[arsinoi]

I heard from friends that the smoke from Imitos engulfed Athens as far as Petroupoli! It was arson and the arsonist was caught on camera by a bypasser. Dear! These people have no conscience! They won't stop until they burn us alive!

[hungryghost]

I have been searching around for the latest news on the fires and found your journal. I hope you stay safe and that this ends really soon - I am so sad and sickened. I live in new york, but my family is just outside gythio. This is a nightmare. - matina

[arsinoi]

I used to go to Gythio some years ago for holidays. The area was beautiful and I dread to think how it has become now. Fortunately most of the fires are dying down. I'm back at Athens cause the roads are open again and my village is safe (for now). Your name is Matina? My favorite aunt's name is Matina! ^^