Following the Manchester terrorist attack at Ariana Grande’s concert on Monday night; I am astounded yet not surprised at the response of the people of Manchester.
Manchester is a unique and beautiful city that has been rocked by this attack, but a clear unity and defiance of it’s people has created a stronger bond that evil will not be able to break apart. My heart goes out to the victims families, friends and colleagues in this time of tragedy.
Another element of this is the incredible response of the emergency services who have worked tirelessly to support those injured and the bereaved families. These services should never be taken for granted and to face these circumstance would take tremendous courage and bravery yet they carried it out with the utmost professionalism.
Out of the darkness came acts of heroism from all backgrounds, even homeless people gave everything the could to help save lives as the emergency response arrived. This is a time when everyone should look out for their local communities.
I sit here writing with my usual cup of tea and on my desk is a picture of my husband and I with my two beautiful step children, Charlie and Sophie who are the same ages of those who attended the concert on Monday. Sophie is a huge fan of Ariana Grande and we can often be found dancing along to her music around the house or watching her on Nickelodeon TV; Sam and Cat is one of Sophie’s favourite shows.
I also sit here looking at their faces and thinking how blooming lucky I get to see them soon when there are parents out there who will not see their children again.
It’s easy to get caught up in the media headlines and forget about what really matters in life, I guess one of the lessons we should take from this tragedy is not to take anything for granted.
The good people of Manchester will stick together and love will always overcome hate.
Natalie Ellis HR 