unplugged

Friday really depressed me. I'm sure that sounds like a very selfish reaction to the tragedy in Colorado, and it probably is. I was extremely sad, in waves … first the horror, then the political fallout, then the inevitable arguments. I decided on a weekend news fast, including social media. This was easier than I thought [except for my NPR Saturday morning].

The only thing that helps me in a situation like this is going to the movies. Ironic, right?

I chose the only kind of movie environment that would make me feel better: The Fox Theater. An organist played songs on a giant instrument that rose from the floor. There was even a sing-along. Cartoons were shown on the big screen. We sat in an enormous, old-fashioned auditorium under a starry sky (artificial but beautiful) and felt like we were in a Moorish palace.

I slipped away for a few hours, then emerged into the thrill of a Midtown Friday night. I took MARTA back to my wonderful house, my fabulous bed, and felt that the next day would be better. For me, life goes on. But I haven't forgotten about the tragedy. And I'm not eager to learn anything more about it. All I can do is pray for people who were more directly affected. And stay off web sites.