Thoughts and Mind in Italy

http://www.cbc.ca/world/story/2009/04/07/italy-earthquake-aquila228.html

On April 6, 2009 at 3:32am an earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter Scale hit the central Italian province of l'Aquila. Its epicenter was approximately 6 miles northeast of the provincial capital. At present the death toll counts 207 victims, with over 1500 individuals injured, 100 of whom were injured seriously.

I lived for 5 weeks in this province in the spring of 2007; the majority of my time was spent doing fieldwork in the southern part of the region, around the southern tip of the Appennine mountain range. This is a beautiful part of the world full of character, both in its landscape, its buildings and its people. The men and women I met during my travels were strong and vital. Some were kind, opening their hearts and homes to me. Others were high, mighty and full of consternation. They had great senses of humour, short fuses, and long memories. All were impossible to forget. My heart and thoughts go out to the people of this land at this time of crisis. I hope that they are able to unite and help one another through this disaster.