Robyn.Bowles.es

As many of you have probably read, last night over two million people filled the streets of central Madrid a few blocks from where we live. They joined together in the rain to demonstrate in solidarity against terrorism.
The gathering was a well-advertised event. Posters encouraging people to come out hung everywhere throughout the province of Madrid. Announcements were made in all the Metro and train stations on the TV screens that hang in the platforms. It was also announced that public transportation would be free that night to encourage people to join in the “manifestacion” in central Madrid.

Samuel and I had gone out to an eastern suburb of Madrid to have lunch at the home of some friends. They live between Alcala de Hanares and Atocha station in Madrid. It was the train line that live on that was bombed, so we had to take the bus. They live about 45 minutes away by bus.
As we came home on the bus, traffic was very heavy, and when we entered the subway (“Metro”) portion of the bus station once we returned to the city, we were met with crowds of people. Several security personnel were needed to direct the traffic of those entering and leaving the Metros. We faced similar crowds when we exited the Metro at our neighborhood station, which is three blocks from street where people gathered.
When we arrived home, Samuel found an email message from the ABC affiliate Detroit news asking him to call them to be interviewed. As I listened to what he said, I thought he described it well.
After addressing several other emails, we went out to the streets. Though most of the 2 million people had dissipated, we walked in their footsteps and saw the candles, flowers, messages and shrines left behind in testament to the sorrow felt in the city.

Samuel has written a piece on his website that captures well our sentiment. I encourage you to visit his site to read his blogs as well.

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