“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”-Matthew 5:4
Happy New Year Readers! The last almost six months of my life have been busy and full of transition, pruning, establishing, pondering and more. I have been podcasting more often than writing. You are welcome to check out my podcast by clicking here. I will return to blogging more often starting in April or May. I was in rest and reset mode for months. I needed to be still in order to hear from and obey God. Happy Holy Week to you and all whom you hold dear. I want to thank you for your love and support of my blog. You are welcome to reach out to me on social media.
On Tuesday March 26, 2024, the national tragedy of the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse occurred. Two Marylanders survived, four have been recovered as deceased and two are missing and presumed deceased. Our prayers and condolances continue to be with the families, loved ones and community of those directly involved in the tragedy. We are thankful to our local, state and national leaders as well as our first responders, medical teams and more.You are welcome to read the latest about the tragedy by going to the AP or our local stations Fox 45, WBAL and WJZ.
On that tragic Tuesday morning, I was up at 4:15 am for 5:00 am prayer with my church. I looked at my digital watch and saw a headline from the AP. It said something along the lines” The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore which is a portion of the 695 highway has collapsed due to a ship hitting it early this morning. ” The first thing I began to do was pray and cry. I could not believe what was unfolding here on Maryland soil. Then I joined prayer calls at 5:00 am and 6:00 am to join with others and pray. I watched the news conferences and continued to pray. I cried and prayed throughout the day.
The Key bridge as we call it in Maryland is a main travel point and is used by tens of thousands of people daily. In addition to those who work in that area, it is an entry point for trade and travel. Our first responders closed the bridge, which saved countless lives and also dove into the water to recover those lost. It was very dark when the collapse occurred at 1:00 am. As usual, our first responders risked their lives to save others. The Marylanders involved in the tragedy were waiting on their repairs to 695 to dry when the collapse occurred. They had repaired potholes on the highway. They were finishing their jobs and preparing to go home to their families, loved 6 community. Most of us expect our loved ones to return home from a hard day’s work.
Baltimore is a gem of Maryland. It is the most populated city in Maryland and is at the center of Maryland. As a native and resident Marylander with Baltimore roots, I am so proud of my home state. You can be a Marylander by birth, adoption and marriage. This week I found myself getting Boardwalk fries (no vinegar Marylanders because I was tired). It made me feel closer to home. The Orioles opening day was a stunning display of Maryland’s toughness and Baltimore’s strength. Maryland’s own world renowned Morgan State University Choir sang the Star Spangled Banner in stunning fashion. If you did not know the Francis Scott Key bridge was named for the Marylander who wrote our National Anthem in Baltimore during the War of 1812. When you visit Baltimore you have to see the Fort McHenry museum and among many other places.
Just like any other city, Baltimore has its own personality. Here are some of my bias observations and this list is not complete. I could write a book.
- We will never eat anything with crab outside the boundaries of Maryland. This includes DC.
- Our snowball menu is more detailed than most restaurants.
- Old Bay, hot sauce and vinegar are staples like salt and pepper.
- Chicken boxes without a slice of bread, hot sauce, ketchup, sat and pepper are suspect.
- Funnel cakes and fried Oreos are summer favorites.
- You will see #Birdland and #Ravensflock represented year around. This is why purple and orange always go so well together.
- We love and adore all branches of the military but we have a soft spot for the Navy.
- A Baltimorian will tell you what neighborhood they are from without hesitation.
- The battle of the east and west side is real and a great conversation starter.
- The best high school in Baltimore is The Baltimore Polytechnic Institute. (I am petty.)
- Baltimorians have a brand of petty. It is without question unique.
- Baltimore can be pronounced with a d or w and birthday can be pronounced with a f.
- Club music is king in Baltimore.
- A crab feast is about being social as well as the crabs.
- Orioles or Ravens gear will automatically spark a conversation with a stranger who is now family.
- A half and half is a staple drink and it better be sweet.
- Berger cookies are delicious and you cannot eat just one.
- Baltimore has a wealth of history that reaches internationally.
- Hon is a term of endearment. A beehive is not necessary.
- We are so beautifully diverse.
Our hearts and reality have been shattered in Maryland but we are tough and strong. We will do what we always do. We will come together as a unit to support, love and care for one another. We will rebuild and move forward together. I would encourage you to visit Baltimore. Our city is so beautiful and has so much to offer. Thank you for your continued prayers and love for Baltimore. God continues to do what he does best which is to keep us as a city and state. To God be the glory in advance of what is next for us.
Ada's Corner 