It has now been a full year since the bombing and shootings in Norway, July 22nd, 2011. In light of this and the tragic shooting in Denver this week, I'd like to say some words and share some pictures.
Most of you have probably heard the story of how one man set of a bomb in the Norwegian capital, killing 8 government employees, and then proceeded to a political youth camp where he shot and killed 69 kids in cold blood. In addition, over 250 people were injured in the process.
This is not the story I want to share with you. I want to share with you the story of how the Norwegian people reacted to this crisis.
"If one man can show so much hate, imagine how much love we can all show together."
Stine Renate Håheim to CNN
We did not let one cruel man break us. We met his cruelty with love and tolerance.
I must say that those days after the shooting and the scenes that took place really made me proud of my people and increased my faith in humanity tenfold. We refused to lower ourselves to hate and instead demonstrated that the power of love and friendship can overcome anything.
These are just images from the capital. All over the country people gathered in town squares and showed their love for the victims and their family, and each other. A whole people took to the streets and showed the world that even in hard times, humanity is still able to love and tolerate.
During the crisis, guests at a nearby camping site took to their boats and risked their lives to get the swimming victims away from the island. Nobody told them to do it, they just did. These were not soldiers or police; they were just ordinary citizens showing extraordinary levels of heroism. I have never met any of them, but if I ever did, I would be honored to shake their hand.
Countless volunteers in various organizations from all over the country either came to assist at the crime scenes or provided help and comfort for the victims and their families. These guys were another set of heroes that showed everyone that solidarity is strongly rooted in the Norwegian people. They were the unfortunate ones that had to search for and retrieve bodies from the lake and island. They also had to disregard their own sorrows and comfort those who needed it more.
Since the event, the Red Cross and other similar organizations has experienced a massive surge in new volunteers. I was one of those new volunteers myself and have since participated in many rescue scenarios. I am proud to be able to serve and participate with these heroes.
In the political aftermath, we still haven't passed any laws or bills that restrict our freedom or gives more leeway for the police. The perpetrator has had his due process in court and is currently awaiting sentencing. Norway has always been a liberal and democratic nation, but an event like this will always rock the foundations of any nation.
However, I am proud of the way my countrymen have stead fast to the principles of liberty and righteousness. They have resisted fear, and the politics thereof. They have demonstrated the foundational values of humanity, which as bronies might call the elements of harmony. Although this is a time for mourning, I believe that it's also a time of great strength.
And today, the political youth returned to Utøya:
To the victims and family of the Aurora shooting; you have my deepest sympathies and love. Do not meet that man's hate with more hate. Instead, answer with love. Love and support the family of the victims, and each other in this tragic event.
Semper filly.
