The Turquoise Chronicles

Hello, everyone.

Let me start by saying that I am, once again, thankful to be safe and sound in my Istanbul apartment. We are in the middle of a storm which started on Saturday, bringing winds of over 80 miles per hour, along with rain, sleet, and snow. When extreme weather hits, the government sends out text message dispatches like the one below and I run them through Google Translate to understand (a very necessary app). Many flights and ferries have been cancelled but thankfully power lines in my suburb of Bahçeşehir are underground, ensuring that I am safe and warm.

If these past few months have been indicative of anything, however, it is the fragile state of affairs in this region of the world. Both natural and manmade disasters have plagued Türkiye, most recently in the form of powerful earthquakes in the southeastern portion of the country, in an area along the Syrian border. Syria and Lebanon have experienced great damage as well. This dispatch from the US Mission in Türkiye provides a brief overview.

If anyone wishes to contribute to relief funds, AKUT Search & Rescue Association is on the frontlines. They are a quality organization and accept donations in the form of USD, Euros, and Turkish lira.

As a result of these terrible events, Türkiye has entered a week-long period of mourning. My school is operating online and we will not return to the classroom until Monday. Various stores are closed and few cars are on the road. Considering that victims of the quakes are being brought to Istanbul hospitals, it is for the best that everyone stay home and let medical professionals do their important work.

Thankfully, I have friends and neighbors around me and we check in regularly. My furry companion is quite pleased to have daytime company, having created a little nest at the foot of my bed.

This morning has brought some glorious sunshine peaking through the clouds. It’s a bit startling, the beauty of the sun, knowing there is so much loss and pain a mere 500 miles to the southeast. It’s a grave reminder to be thankful for health and safety, and appreciate the little things. I certainly appreciate you for taking the time to check in and wish you a safe and peaceful week ahead.