The icon up the street

Day four. While out running errands this morning, Ben and I encountered an apartment fire. FDNY trucks were everywhere -- ladders, pumps, probably half a dozen or more, all on a narrow one-way street. Cars headed down the street had to back out into a busy intersection to get out of the way, but the police were on the spot to direct traffic and prevent accidents. The noise was deafening, and we speculated about what the city must have sounded like on 9/11 with those screaming sirens coming from every direction. We were both a little surprised at how strong our emotional response was when we saw those men in the familiar FDNY suits and hats running down the sidewalk with all their gear, ready to do whatever job lay ahead or them. And what an icon the FDNY firetruck has become! Every time I see one (and our house is just a few doors down the street from a firehouse), I am reminded of one of our country's darkest days and the selfless heroism of those brave firefighters who were there to serve.

Five years after the event, we are still deeply moved by the events of that day. Life goes on and people keep living; but the sense of loss is still there and not as far beneath the surface as we tell ourselves.

As for the rest of our day, well, we've got a show tonight at 9 and then a day off tomorrow, which will be nice. I hope to catch some other shows from the Fringe -- something I haven't had time to do yet. But we're starting to get into a groove here, so a little bit of free time should be opening up for us over the next few days. Tomorrow we hope to see a show about an old man who thinks he's turning into the Olsen twins. Anything goes at FringeNYC!