As overwhelmingly sad as the tragic airplane crash that killed many Polish leaders is, we realize what a truly amazing experience it is for us to be living in Poland right now. The patriotism here is very moving. As we walked to church this morning, we saw Polish flags everywhere. They are being displayed on houses, businesses and apartments. The long apartment complexes have lots of flags hanging on each building. It is very impressive. Many of them have a black ribbon attached to the top to show that the nation is in mourning.
There are two large flags flying high outside of St. Stanislaus church along with a kneeler set up for people to pray.
Inside the church is the Polish seal (the crowned eagle) with a black ribbon at the top and candles lit in front of it. We went to Mass at 11:00 and that is where we were when the nation had two minutes of silence at noon. Pretty cool.
There are small Polish flags attached to the trams and buses today, too (not a great picture--it is on the right side on top).
Malls are closed today. Grocery stores are closed today. There are lots of people out walking around. I'm not sure where they are all going but it is a beautiful, sunny 50 degree day here.
I have read that there is already speculation regarding whether or not President Obama will be coming to represent the US for the funeral, though details for that have not been announced yet. My opinion is that he needs to get over here. Poland is a loyal friend to America. Obama did not come to the 70th anniversary commemoration of the start of WWII here in Gdansk back in September. I was annoyed about that. This is a monumental tragedy for Poland. They need to see support from us. So I believe it is necessary for Obama to be in Warsaw. And I think it would be nice for George W. Bush to come along, too!
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