I was reaching to close the shutters against the invasive noon-day sun when I was startled by a scream directly below me. There is often noise in the center of Arles but this…the sound caught my stomach, resounded in my bones. I looked down to see a woman in a heap on the ground, her young son helpless at her side. She was staring at her cell phone and then began to yell “Mon frère! C’est pas possible! C’est pas possible!”. She started to sob, raised herself and began to wander blindly all while continually repeating the same phrase. My brother, it’s not possible, it’s not possible…I was ready to go to her but saw the men from the café across the street were already at her side. One tried to calm her in vain while the other phoned for an ambulance. Her cries rose and were joined by her son’s who kept asking “What is it Mother?” He had not yet understood. Very fortunately, our doctor lives across the street and came out at a run. She firmly but calmly grasped the woman and issued her inside her office. I stood staring at the shut door while the quiet rearranged itself. How quickly it had all happened.
Such a thin, thin line. Between before and after. Better then to take a moment, right now if you can, to appreciate your loved ones, your friends, your pets, your community, your family. I am sorry that today’s post is a sad one but I know that we all need a reminder now and again. Not to take any moment for granted because we have so many gifts everyday, right in front of us. My heart goes out to that anonymous woman for her loss.
Dear Heather, a very sad day indeed. "Partir, c'est mourir un peu, mais mourir, c'est partir beaucoup." You have an open heart and always find the exact words to share the feelings… thin line…before…after…
And yesterday Nora Ephron passed away…An iconic New Yorker. Who didn't love her "When Harry Met Sally" and many other hilarious movies and books? She made us laugh and smile and cry.
You make me laugh and smile and cry. You bring a voice to a mute numbness of deep sadness.
We have to cherish NOW, who knows of tomorrow..
Thank you so much…
Witnessing a stranger's pain is difficult to bear, but your compassionate response is an indication of the empathy you so often show. It is this that makes the world spin….that we feel so much for others, and can imagine the extent of their pain. There but for the grace of God…..
A very true observation. I was thinking the same thing only a couple of days ago.
Oh Heather,
What a sad thing to have happened and how beautifully you shared it with us. I am thankful, present and aware. You have my gratitude.
Aidan xo
I know about thin lines after 911 and will never forget. My heart goes out to the woman and I hope she can find peace with her loved ones.
XX
Debra~
Oh yes, such a thin, thin line between before and after. I've always remembered the scene in Goodbye Mr. Chips where he bids his wife goodbye and tells her to be safe and sadly watches her drive away. It was the last time he saw her. Even when there is not a war going on around us, we just never know.
A beautiful post, Heather.
Helen, your extremely kind words brought tears to my eyes. Thank you so much for being here, being there and being you.
Perfectly said, as always Jackie.
Dear Heather,
I know you must be saddened by this occurance. You live in a wonderfully civilized place where so many people with empathy came running and then a doctor to be so readily available, that is a blessing.
Your beautiful image of thin, thin line speaks loudly and is a reminder of how fragile life is.
On that note, I wish to thank you for the joy your bring me with each post from a beautiful corner of the world.You observe daily life with a heart full of joy and compassion.
Helen xx
This is so true. . .thanks for the reminder. My heart goes out to that woman. Carpe diem is my mantra but included in it, is love your loved ones.