It is fair to say that Britain has been under siege somewhat in recent weeks. But it is the role and reaction played by the general public that is so heartwarming to see.
What the nation has faced
What do I mean by siege? Let us delve further. Britain has faced a number of challenges in the past month or so. On the 22nd May we had a terrorist attack at an arena in Manchester by an individual known as Salman Abedi. As the BBC stated, Abedi "detonated a homemade device" in the foyer of the concert where Ariana Grande was performing. Twenty-two people died.
Furthermore, in London, on the 3rd June, three male attackers used "a van and knives" to kill seven people in eight minutes of terror, according to Sky News. From a van attack on London Bridge, to people in bars around Borough Market, there were numerous attacks. Lastly, as the Telegraph reported, in the early hours of Wednesday morning, a fire broke out in the 24-storey Grenfell Tower block in Kensington, London. Although there are no official figures, it is believed that there will be many deaths.
The general public
But in looking back, as I stated, it is the reaction of the public to these unspeakable incidents that needs mentioning. People offering food, clothes, free rooms to stay in, free rides to be with loved ones.
In addition to this, promoting solidarity and unity have been key features of the British people in recent weeks. The nation has stood together and stood strong. They have not been affected by what is happening, they have simply wanted to help. Whilst we may forget it, it is at times like these that remind us what a great nation that we live in.
Whatever is to happen going forward, and whatever tragedy we are to face, we can take heart in the fact that we are not alone. Far from it, we are 'one'.
