Orlando. I remember you. Sitting right in the heart of Florida, you are a place where dreams come true. Where magic unfolds. Where a confluence of people from around the world come to enjoy dream vacations. Sunshine, sweet oranges, laughter, fun and good times – that’s what you are all about. I remember spending some quality time with you. Basketball games at Amway Center, birthdays at Disney, dining out with old friends.
Today, as the horror of what happened over the weekend sinks in, many who know me ask about Orlando and I am flooded with memories of magical weekends spent with you. Rainbows, long drives, writing in the sky, beautiful people living harmoniously under the same sun – that is how I remember you. You mean a lot to people the world over – some spend their lifetime earnings to make a dream trip with their family. You gave them a memory of a lifetime, sweet moments that stay with them long after the kids have moved out of the nest.
Somebody injected a drop of poison into your celebration of life and love. That drop may have consumed the lives of many but it has brought together droves of people. People who stand for everything that you are – love, oneness, unity, brotherhood and peace. And above all family – we are all one big family and it’s time we acknowledge that. We do in fleeting moments when we come together with a common goal in mind – to celebrate with our families or support a worthy cause.
Oh Orlando! The shadow cast over you will soon pass. For a hundred thousand hearts are beaming their light to you. And the light will triumph and peace will prevail. I don’t know if you remember me but I remember you and always will. You are my happy place and always will be.
Punctuate Life 