As I write these words (12.00 midday NZ time) a memorial service is being held for the 200+ who lost thier lives on February 22nd 2011.
A crowd of around 100,000 have gathered in Hagley Park (our Central Park) which includes Prince William, the Prime Minister, the Govenor General, the Prime Minister of Australia, the Govenor General of Australia and numerous internationals. International Urban Search And Rescue teams have temporarily left thier posts and marched into the park to rapturous spontaneous applause.
This is all about those who are no longer among us . . . who died a premature and frightening death . . . some were my friends.
I invite you to stop for a moment with me . . .