By now you may have heard about the terrorist attack on the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder. Three of us were only a few blocks away when the attack occurred. The Pro-Israel protesters had peacefully walked past us while we were meandering. A few minutes later there were sirens, flashing lights, and a lot of commotion. Because firetrucks were on the scene we assumed there was a fire until we got home and heard the news.
The Pearl Street mall is a pedestrian shopping, dining, and entertainment area. Near the attack site there is a water pad where kids were happily getting soaked, a harpist playing, people eating at outdoor cafes and loads of people like us, taking in the sun, visiting shops, and enjoying the beautiful day.
The attack is a reminder that things can very quickly go wrong. All it takes is one very crazy or incensed person to destroy a community’s tranquility and sense of security. My heart goes out to the victims and all of Boulder.