As compared to earlier events of this type, one can certainly see the difference in the city. Police were on the streets, people were helpful and courteous, and everyone kept their spirits up and behaved admirably. Some stayed outside all night, trying to beat the heat. Their own neighbors, who patrolled through the night respectfully, kept neighborhoods safe - people sat out on their porches and in their backyards, making the most of the event. There were barbecues at midnight and very little grumbling about the inconvenience.
The long lines of cars trying to maneuver through streets without traffic lights moved evenly and patiently. Citizens took it upon themselves to man the intersections that were left without police to direct traffic.
Don't get me wrong. Part of the subdued reaction to the darkened city was surely due to the fact that no one as yet knew whether or not this was the beginning of a larger event, an act of terrorism. Thursday night proved that if something horrific was going to happen, the people of New York were going to stand and fight together. New Yorkers started out Friday morning with a huge sigh of relief, realizing that the lights had not gone out in order to leave us vulnerable to an attack.
The renewed sense of pride and citizenship in this city is awesome in its scope and beautiful in its many manifestations. "I love New York" is no longer a slogan; it is a deeply felt emotion akin to what one feels for ones family. Whatever comes our way, we are prepared to act as a single unit, standing side by side.
| Tell a Friend About this Article |
