An Unexpected Alert
In Calgary, the police sent an alert: an armed and dangerous man is on the loose. His name is Benedict Kaminski, his vehicle a gray Nissan, his actions—alleged murder. The details beeped on my phone, cutting through the winter quiet like a warning of hostile aircraft or, as some might call it back home, a terrorist.
Snow began to fall again, slowly covering the city in its heavy, peaceful silence. But beneath the snow, the city stirred. Hundreds of thousands of people scrolled through their phones, searching for the latest update. Who was this man? What had driven him to this? What set him apart from the rest of us?
The Fragility of Community
The alert reminded me of something deeper: the fragility of community and the human need for connection. It’s December 30, 2024. Christmas is over, and with it, the holiday spirit that briefly unites strangers under twinkling lights. In the days after, the tension drops, and life feels colder, quieter.
Holidays matter. They’re not just an excuse to decorate, eat, and exchange gifts—they’re a reminder of shared humanity. Without them, you can see the cracks: a change in smiles, a loss of purpose. Year after year, the pattern repeats itself. It’s not unique to Calgary, nor to Canada. It’s a universal truth.
Finding Connection in the Cold
As I watched the snowfall, I couldn’t help but wonder: where is Kaminski hiding? What does he feel as the city searches for him? And what about the rest of us, who scroll through his story while sipping our coffee and staying warm indoors?
The snow keeps falling. The city will move on, as cities always do. But the reminder remains: humans need more than safety and stability. We need reasons to come together, to celebrate, to connect, to feel like part of something bigger than ourselves.
Lessons from a Quiet City
- Community Is Fragile: It takes effort to maintain connection, especially in times of quiet isolation.
- Shared Moments Matter: Holidays, traditions, and shared rituals aren’t just luxuries—they’re necessities for the heart.
- Reflect Beyond the News: Behind every headline is a story, and behind every story, a person.
Moving Forward
As Calgary returns to its usual rhythm, I’m reminded of the importance of creating our own moments of connection. Whether through a holiday, a shared meal, or even a conversation over coffee, it’s these small things that make life in the snow a little warmer.
Written by Wa Alikum Salam, Immigrant.