Today, I, along with millions of viewers around the world, watched as the 33 Chilean miners rose from the mine shaft after 69 days underground--the longest stretch anyone has ever gone and survived.
It has been talked about as my generation's moon landing, because of its global scope of interest, symbolic gesture of hope and indication of human innovation and power. And thanks to live streaming video, people can watch this event unfold and experience the excitement and joy from the TVs, computers and phones.
This was the view from my watchtower:
To me, "the rescue" as it is now known, shows an unfaltering will to live, deep compassion by the rescuers as well as immense strides in mining technology, because it is no secret to anyone that miners frequently lose their lives in mining crises. While I'm sure that this probably won't make history books, I think it is a hugely positive event that will make some people reconsider their problems, if only for a day, and appreciate the air up above.
I cannot believe how supportive and solidary the Chilean people are. I saw people literally hugging in the streets when the miners were rescued. I hadn't seen anything like it... except during the earthquake earlier this year. And during the World Cup. Anyway, it's wonderful to see a whole nation moved to tears because of their countrymen. I think the only time I ever saw that in the US ever was during and immediately after 9/11. What a wonderful testament to the human spirit.
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