4/8/2020 : Tania Saleh

Where were you on August 4, 2020? How did you experience that day?

In Beit Mery watching the explosion from my balcony.

What were the consequences of the explosion for you — at the time, in the weeks, months, and years that followed?

First reaction, I called my sons and friends to see where they were.

The next morning, I went on the scene of the crime to watch what was left of Beirut. All I could hear was the sound of broken glass. The most beautiful thing to see were those young kids cleaning the mess, the pain was immense but this scene was so hopeful.

Seeing all the people who passed away, the ones who were disabled, the damage in our souls and in our city, From that point on, I realised we will not be sane again.

I left to France.

Five years later, what do you feel? What do you want to say?

I only think of the parents who lost their children, their pictures are still engraved in my head. How will they EVER heal if there still is no justice and no answer... 

I think of our city and I wonder how many more layers of pain can it take?