Christchurch Conversations

In Wellington I found myself being obliged (and willing) to tell others how life is in Christchurch.  Sunday with my friend was fine.  I wanted to share with her on a personal level as we always do.

I was not prepared for the intense interest from others.  Monday morning I breakfasted with two conference-goers, one I already knew, and one a stranger.  It seemed that every topic that arose had a Christchurch aspect and I was continually explaining how things are here – the reality of life in an earthquake zone.

The Conference welcome included a minute’s silence for Christchurch which I found difficult emotionally.  It seemed to go on for several minutes, and was followed by a number of sessions focussed on the earthquake.  These two days were the first time I’ve talked face-to-face with caring people from outside Christchurch and it triggered all the stress I’ve been feeling recently.  I was relieved when two other women from Christchurch told me they’d also shed tears at several points.  It’s logical that a Volunteering Conference should focus on a recent natural disaster where volunteers have played such a wonderful part, but it was too soon for me.  I was careful in my choice of sessions to avoid an overdose of earthquake analysis, and really appreciated those who gave me caring support.  Home again, on Wednesday morning I was woken by a sharp quake measuring 4.1.  It certainly hasn’t stopped!

“I could have done without the fuss
and fewer earthquakes to discuss.”