Freedom is stronger than fear

“Norway is struck by a national tragedy. What we hoped would never happen, has happened. It is now our nation is tested, that our strength, our community and courage becomes clear. Now is the time we stand by our values.

I still firmly believe that freedom is stronger than fear.

I still firmly believe in an open democracy and society.

I still firmly believe in our possibility to live free and safe in our own country.”

(Exert from King Harald´s speech to the nation.)

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An act of pure evil, so horrendous I don´t have words. We have lost 93 fellow norwegians in these mad attacks. With still around 10 people missing. And 96 injured.

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We don´t know who the victims are yet, but in such small country, everyone is bound to know someone who was there, or know someone related to the victims.

It feels like a personal attack, even of it turns out I don´t know anyone killed, they are just friends I haven´t met yet.
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It is heart-warming to see how people are standing together, sharing and caring for each other. Angry and in sorrow, but calm confidence that the police will do their job, and not scream for a revenge.
Everyone is talking about how important it is not to be silenced buy terror, how not to give in, but to improve our democracy, how to be kinder to each other, how to still fight for what we believe in, and to still have an open society.
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As one of the surviving victims said when interviewed by CNN about revenge: “When one man can produce so much hate, think of all the love we can produce”
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4 thoughts on “Freedom is stronger than fear

  1. Dear Janne, I am so saddened to hear the news of this horrible act of violence striking your country. But the words of King Harald – and YOUR words – are testimony to the strength of a people determined to live in freedom. Best of all was that quote you included from one of the victims – may Norway stay united in love and courage.

  2. helo Janne, well I too am very saddened by what has happened in your country, I’m so pleased that you yourself are alright. I hope you are keeping well despite the circumstances – your translation above is very moving…

    all the best my friend

  3. ugh…heavy stuff.(seriously what’s wrong with people)

    I’m thankful you’re alright…

    I will hope for justice for all of Norway and peace for the families suffering their loss.

    xo

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