The first day

The courtyard of the Cattedrale di Palermo

It’s quiet here, but not silent.

Just a few days ago, I did not feel worried. Things were slower, but still going.

Last night, as I was going home, I walked through the courtyard of the Cattedrale di Palermo. Its doors were shut. It was shocking. It still is. To see everything closed like this. But then I looked up, to the Madonna, inlaid in gold mosaic; she watches over us. I looked to the pillar supporting the entrance, a verse from the Qur’an inscribed at the top. So much divine protection does this city call upon. Has it called upon, through the ages.

As the first day ends, I feel better than I did last night. Because over these hours, I have had time to adjust.

Last night it was less certain, how these new measures would play out. I had trouble falling asleep, but when I woke up, it was time to get on with it. Sure, now we need to wear gloves at the supermarket. But the supermarket is still open. There is still soap on the shelves, and fresh produce.

The main tourist street was nearly empty, which makes sense. The people here are the people who live here, and we are mostly inside. But what remain open are the local bars, tabaccherie, pharmacies. It was comforting to walk through the Mercato del Capo, and to see the familiar faces of produce vendors who were there today like everyday.

Because life goes on. We are still here. We are devoting this time to rest, so that as a whole we can heal. So that we can get back to it. Safely, and in good health.

I have learned many lessons, just in these hours. They are still sinking in. This whole situation has been surreal, and I am still processing so much of it. I can’t say that I didn’t feel low at times. I can’t say that the sight of empty streets didn’t bring tears to my eyes. My heart is hurting for all those who are affected by this crisis - those who are sick and suffering, those who have lost loved ones. Those who are struggling with the economic implications of lost business and lost work. Not just in Palermo and in Italy, but all over the world. We are in this together.

I hope that tomorrow will be lighter. I hope that these measures will be effective, so that the contagion will slow and then stop. I hope can we can get back to being together.

love,

greer