Mr. E: Together We Stand

By Mr. E

This piece is a little different from the others I’ve written in the sense I’m searching inwardly to find meaning to what is taking place outwardly, within this world of ours.

On Tuesday morning, the unthinkable took place in our town and many of us, myself included, were left attempting to find understanding, peace, and forgiveness. We live in a world of news reports, Snapchat, Facebook/Twitter updates, and of course Instagram posts; this is where our emotions are diverted, these are the sites which capture our very beings.

A bomb being set off in an airport in Belgium, a gunman in Paris, a man broadcasting a killing on Facebook are all parts of the aforementioned world — these are quick hits to buckets which allow the various outlets to stake their claims to the importance of it all, but in reality the importance always seems a world or two away from “us.”

The truth is, on Tuesday morning we were affected by an active shooter, a shooter who not only took the lives of three people but also a fourth the week prior. My house was shaken due to the fact that one of the victims was someone whom I knew: he was the best friend of my flat-mate. In an era where people are fixated on appearances, I’m sure many missed an opportunity to befriend a special person.

So on Tuesday morning, the nation cast its gaze upon a town best known for its agriculture and not its violence. Many seem to forget or for that matter not know that Fresno is the fifth largest city in California, and it affords people the chance to live and travel to and fro without the burden of price; yet what is being portrayed is different in some sectors because sensation sells.

Instead of adding to the sensation, I’m going to address the goodness which has been poured out by the community. We’ve shed tears but then we remember that none of these men would want anyone to harbor ill feelings.

Earlier today, I sat and listened to stories being recalled about one of the victims. There was nothing but laughter and fond memories. One patron said, “I can’t think of anything bad he ever did.”

So it’s within this vein, I ask those in our community to venture to a fundraiser for one of the victims, which is taking place this Saturday and Sunday, April 21-22, at 1826 Van Ness Ave, from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. (on both days).

My job is to find the uniqueness within our community and abroad. This weekend, let’s all be unique together if not but for just a moment.

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FresYes Writing Team

We say “Yes and” to our community, which we love to work and live in. We always speak positively about our growing business, each other and the Fresno community. We are proud to support local businesses, engage in what’s happening in our community and lovingly participate in as many volunteer activities as we can as individuals and as a collective group. We are generous and we are proud to give back.

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