Year Three, Day 179: Be Prepared! Be Aware! Be Vigilant!

I found the above flyers at: https://www.dhs.gov/active-shooter-preparedness
It is the Department of Homeland Security website.

Yes! I just watched an update out of Sutherland Springs, Texas.

One of the reporters just asked the FBI agent if now is the time to talk about security in churches. And he emphatically said he has been encouraging schools, churches and all citizens to take steps to be me more aware and prepared. Just like I said in my post yesterday. Great minds think alike!

I am continuing my research on training opportunities. In the past I have seen classes led by the Portland Police Bureau and City of Portland (I'm an employee!) in civilian active response training. I do not see one in the near future. But it is on my radar!

At the Community Music Center, which is part of Portland Parks and Recreation, where I teach piano, we have a staff meeting once a year. The last couple of years we have a segment on active shooter response training. So I do have the "Run, Hide, Fight" mantra ingrained in my brain.

But it's not enough! I'm thinking about taking martial arts. I studied taekwondo with my son for a few years about 15 years ago. I ended up with a blue belt. I could break boards with my feet. And I loved sparring.

I am a peaceful, loving person. But there is evil in this world. And I will defend my loved ones and the innocent with my life!

I'm a little amped up today. Maybe it's all that tea and ginger.

But I am feeling empowered. Tired of being a victim to horrible news and feeling so helpless.

My new mantra:

Be prepared!

Be aware!

Be vigilant!

I am tired of feeling passive in this violent world!
Now if only my lungs will cooperate. I can't fight the enemy if I am out of breath!

I did do my morning hooping. Day 142! Still hooping on the back sidewalk. Grass is too cold and wet as my lungs are healing. It is amazing that I can get a decent workout in such a confined space!

I had hot tea with ginger. I stopped at one of my favorite $8 or less lunch joints. (HoHo) I had cashew nut shrimp and hot and sour soup. With much water and hot tea.

I packed a baggy of minced ginger with me for the road today.

I am on my way to teach piano and then choir practice. In between, I plan on stopping at the grocery store for some fresh fruits. I'm thinking oranges and a green banana.

I am a survivor!

Talk to you tomorrow. Gotta run.

Happy Tuesday!

Love,

Zita

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