RAT Fw: Black Armbands (sorry if you get this more than once)

[jonoh1@juno.com]

  Over the years, when faced with the inescapeable truths of grieving,
I've found great assistance in softly emphasizing the exterior.

Our country is in mourning. We are "eggs" to quote a friend, and must be
handled gently for a bit. At least till we get our bearings. 

  The use of black armbands to commemorate lost comrades and loved ones
is an international symbol that, over hundreds of years, has communicated
quickly, efficiently and soberingly the deep loss felt by the wearer.
But, perhaps most importantly, it also has a quiet Dignity that allows
the viewer a sudden pause that speaks respectfully to their humanity on a
visceral level that words cannot capture.

  I'm wearing one now and plan to wear it for exactly one month. 

  Flags are important. But not for everybody. I can understand that. A
black armband is neither political nor housed in any religeon.

  It unifies in its quiet dignity and respect for those feared lost.

  To make an armband:

  Take a black sock and cut off the top.
  Cut up a black T-shirt and tie it around your upper arm.
  Get some black elastic (at least 2" wide) and sew two ends together.
  Grab some thick black ribbon and tie it aaround your arm.

  It helps me go on.
  Without leaving anyone behind.

  Jonathan/Ezra


www.ezrabuzzington.com



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