9-12-01

Last night at approximately 6pm my time I was at Lisa's apartment. She had received a phone call from another volunteer who had given her the news. We were both shocked at what had unfolded in New York and Washington. My first thought was dad, who was currently on a plane headed for JFK Airport. Unfortunately we had no TV to receive the news, and had to rely on other volunteers and family from home to inform us of what was happening. Lisa's team leader stopped by and asked if we needed Police Guards stationed at her apartment (it was already decided that I should stay with her since I had no phone). We decided against it for the moment. Rick from Peace Corps Sofia told us that we were in the safest place that we could be. It's hard for me to imagine that; home is supposed to be the safe place. I could never imagine anywhere else being my safe haven. He gave us the key to the office, and told us to go there to call our families back home, and to use the internet. We were incredibly grateful. There was a TV in the hotel lobby and we were able to see part of the CNN coverage. It was awful. I was able to contact mom and Brandy, and I felt much better after that.

As far as my safety, I am concerned, but I feel very safe here in my town. I have the support of all my colleagues and the Bulgarians, for they are as appalled and outraged as I am. They are all extremely concerned for my safety, and have been wonderful during this time. I couldn't ask for more sincere support.

There has been no word from Peace Corps Sofia, although Lisa and I spoke with the 24 hour Duty Officer twice last night. They have the number to reach us if necessary, and the first step in the Emergency Plan is called "steadfast". This is where all volunteers are contacted and told to remain in their sites until further notice. During this time we are required to pack our emergency bag in case we are called to be evacuated. I was told by the Duty Officer that this would probably not happen because they did not want all the Americans in the same place at the same time. While this is supposed to make me feel better, it somehow made me feel more scared. I know that this is probably the safest place for me right now, but it's hard to believe it without the support of friends and family.

I am incredibly glad to have Lisa here, but I feel very alone. I can't describe it, but Lisa told me she felt the same way. I have spent the morning at the house of my colleague, watching the CNN coverage and I am horrified by what has happened. Nothing like this has ever happened before, and I am concerned that this will start a war. Everyone here, including the Bulgarians, are concerned that this will be the beginning of World War III. I'm not sure if we are over-exaggerating the situation, but from the little information we receive here, that's what it feels like. There is a huge concern about Osama bin Laden being behind the attacks, because just a few short weeks ago he placed a direct threat on Americans in Bulgaria and Romania. The Embassy and Peace Corps offices were shut down, and the American Flags and signs were taken down and removed. We were told after a few days that the threat was over, and I didn't tell anyone back home for fear of worrying everyone for no reason. I have never felt scared for my personal security, and I still feel that way. I am more scared about being evacuated before my work here really begins. Please do not worry about me or my safety, because Peace Corps will get us out of here if there is any concern. I will make every attempt to keep everyone updated on what is going on here, through email, and also by updating this journal.

Last I heard, dad was safe in Newfoundland Canada. If anyone has any more information, please email it to me as soon as possible.

I love you all, and wish that I was with you during this awful time. Please stay safe and do not worry about me. I am being taken care of.

Love, sarah