Ironically, my previous post does not contain "a last thought" about the Bardo Museum--there is more to say. I have babbled on and on about its wonders for awhile, thinking that few people knew of it. And now the entire world has probably heard about it due to the tragic events on Wednesday, March 18.
According to witnesses, three men with backpacks had coffee in the café across the street from the Bardo entrance gates. When they saw a couple of tourist buses arrive, they walked into the Bardo parking lot, pulled out Kalashnikovs and opened fire on the buses. Around twenty people were killed and forty people injured, mostly women. The men then ran into the museum and took hostages. It is Spring Vacation, a time when excursions for students take place...a lot of kids were around.
The BAT (Brigade Anti-Terroriste) quickly arrived and had the situation under control within two hours with no further loss of life--except for two of the three terrorists.
This is a wakeup call for the newly-elected government. Terrorists have taken advantage of the continued "transition" periods that have dragged on for four years and that undermine government authority. Tunisians are not only upset and shocked, but truly angry. Nothing like this has ever happened before. The weapons flowing in from Libya on black markets have strengthened criminal groups, especially those that have a "political" agenda.
My sketchbook page today contains a distressed and perplexed Poseidon, which is based on a Roman mosaic in the Bardo. He is faced with a Kalashnikov and grenades.
25 comments:
Thanks for the update. I am so relieved you are all right. Your sketch book page says it all.
Good Lord. What is the matter with people. When tiny Tunisia hit the news here in small Charlotte, I thought of our "Dr," immediately. So glad life goes on with you and yours. Then the big difference between your last Bardo post and this one. Life as we know it can change in a second as we both know. TBTG for art. Hugs DIane
I had come to admire the Bardo Museum through your posts. When I saw the news on Wednesday, I thought of you and your love for the culture there. We all want to know how life progresses in Tunisia, and pray that freedom and safety will thrive.
I'm glad you are safe. It is so disturbing to hear of the horrors in locations where we have a friend.
I am speechless, and thinking of you and all in Tunisia. This must be horrifying.
Thought about you the minute I heard the news ....
A crazy world I wanted to say, but I must say : there are a few crazy people out there who think they can terrify all people living (visiting) there.
Truly hope politics will take their responsibility.
Good you're safe, Nadia
Thanks so much for this post, Nadia. So glad all is well with you personally, despite the tragic events in Tunisia. Art on, my friend. Be well.
So glad you posted to let us know. Such horror all over our world and watching it spread is awful. Stay safe.
I have also thought of you, since I heard the news. Glad to hear you are ok. So sad.
Every day a new and sickening tragedy somewhere in the world. None of it makes any sense and no-one seems to know how to put a stop to it. I feared for the future when my children were born and now wonder what my grandchildren will see during their lifetime. Does the human race never learn? Lynne.
What a relief to see your post today, truly...you and your country have been on my mind. Your many informative blog entries about the Bardo have made it more than just a museum in a far away country.
Sadly our world has become a very scary place, certainly not the Leave It To Beaver life I loved and appreciated.
Virtual hugs coming your way.
Je suis Bardo indeed. Glad you're ok.
I am very late in sending my concerns for your safety and well-being -- I had intended to write after I read about the tragedy in our small town newspaper. I immediately thought of you and said a prayer. You are in our thoughts and prayers as your country struggles through this difficult and dangerous time.
Diane
I've been watching the news - and have been concerned for you - and your country. Thanks for the update.
All of our hearts joined with you and your country the moment we heard the news. So good to have you post. Je suis Bardo!
I am very glad you and your family are ok. My thoughts instantly went to you when I saw the news. Please stay safe. It is a sad thing that the animals who do these awful things think they have accomplished something, when all they are doing is hurting ordinary people and their families.
How sad to see this senseless violence spreading to your area before the government can even get things figured out. I pray for your continued safety.
So sorry to hear about this tragedy! What is this world coming to...so horrible. Glad you are safe and I hope your country wakes up. Best wishes.
We sympathize with you and hope that it continues quietly in these tumultuous conditions . Ellen
We heard about the tragedy on the news here and I immediately thought of you. So glad you are safe and a pox on those who were behind this senseless act.
So glad you're alright. But sad for the victims. My heart goes out to those in your nation.
I have been traveling abroad with no internet for 5 days. Only now I learned about the tragedy and immediately came to your blog. Thank you for telling your side of the story, I am glad that you and your family are safe.
Thanks for the additional info on this horrific event. I did not make the connection that this is where you've often gone & shared some of its treasures. A stunning sketch page to capture & respond to this. A different way to journal that will have a lasting impact as it is viewed by you & perhaps your descendents.
It was such terrible news. I'm pleased to hear you and your family are safe.
poor Tunisia - just can't catch a break. I'm glad you and your family are safe.
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