Living in Las Vegas means being constantly surrounded by reminders of the 1October anniversary, leaving almost no escape from its presence.
Driving around the southern part of Las Vegas Valley, it's hard to miss Mandalay Bay. It's everywhere, on every local channel, and even cropping up on social media. The stories are endless, filling our news feeds and timelines. Some companies have even jumped on the bandwagon, using it as a clever advertising tactic. So, if you ever decide to unplug from the world, be prepared to encounter Mandalay Bay at every turn.
My wife and I fall somewhere in the middle, not completely unaffected but also not overwhelmed by the 1October anniversary. We have seen that different locals have different ways of coping with it. Some seem to handle it with ease, as if it never happened. On the other hand, there are those who are grappling with intense emotions such as anxiety, depression, and more. It's a wide spectrum of reactions. In order to maintain emotional stability during this time, there are numerous strategies one can adopt.
Need to mourn?
Even a year later, it's perfectly normal to experience anxiety or depression in relation to the attack. There's no need to feel ashamed about it. It's important to remember that you don't have to physically be present at the scene to empathize with the emotions and trauma endured by the victims and their families.
There are numerous resources available to provide assistance and comfort to individuals going through similar experiences. One option is to visit the Healing Garden or the Memorial Exhibit at the Clark County Government Center. These places not only offer a space for reflection and remembrance but also serve as a gathering point for those who share your emotions. While it may be an emotionally challenging experience, being surrounded by others who understand your pain can bring solace and a sense of support. Taking the time to pay tribute to the lives lost that night and receiving empathy from fellow visitors can provide some measure of comfort during this difficult time.
Exploring the webpage proved beneficial for my spouse and me.
Shortly after the reopening of Las Vegas Blvd, my wife and I took immediate action to assist ourselves by exploring the vicinity surrounding Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and the concert venue. To familiarize ourselves with the area, we embarked on a leisurely walk, paying close attention to every detail. It was particularly beneficial that my wife had prior knowledge of the region to the east of the Strip, as she had attended the American Ninja Warrior tapings there. These tapings took place on the lot situated right across Giles Street from the concert venue. Determined to gather as much information as possible, we decided to revisit the area once Giles Street was accessible again.
Observing the region's regularity played a role in the recovery journey. If you continue to experience problems due to the assault, I recommend giving this a shot.
Make a positive impact on the local community by giving back.
My spouse and I made a collective decision to combat malevolence by spreading kindness. Our primary aim became to contribute towards the betterment of society.
Our first experience with blood donation took place on Nevada Day 2017. Prior to that date, we had never considered the importance of donating blood, but the events that unfolded on 1 October changed everything. Witnessing the urgent need for blood after the attack, we were compelled to take action. Since that fateful day, my wife and I have become regular blood donors, embracing the opportunity to contribute to this noble cause. My wife, in particular, has donated blood three times since our initial donation, while I have done so twice. As our next appointment approaches, coinciding with Nevada Day once again, we are eager to continue our commitment and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
There is an undeniable sense of satisfaction that comes from knowing we are making a difference in someone's life, which is also beneficial for our own physical well-being.
Motivated by the shooter's history of problem gambling, I took it upon myself to raise awareness of this issue. In addition to expanding our charitable donations, we have actively engaged in volunteer work.
Attend a live performance
Laughter is an essential aspect of life that brings joy and happiness to everyone. In times like these, it becomes even more crucial for us to find reasons to laugh. Attending a comedy show is a fantastic way to lighten the mood and uplift our spirits. In a previous article, I explored different methods that residents can utilize to secure complimentary passes to comedy clubs. My spouse and I have made it a tradition to attend these shows on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, and it has been a source of amusement for us throughout the years. Even though we are not seeking an escape from anything, we genuinely enjoy the experience. So why not take a break from the daily grind and treat yourself to a night full of laughter? You deserve it!
Not everyone may enjoy comedy clubs. However, free ticket websites often offer a variety of shows such as magic performances or theatrical productions.
Keep busy
This weekend, it's probably not the best idea to just sit around the house if you're struggling with the 1October anniversary. Instead, why not consider disconnecting from everything and immersing yourself in a good book? Not only will it provide a welcome distraction, but it will also allow you to unwind and relax. Additionally, getting some exercise can do wonders for your mental well-being. Take advantage of the pleasant weather and go for a walk or a jog in the park. You could even bring your furry friends along and make it a fun outing for both you and your dogs. Another great way to lift your spirits is to meet up with friends. Whether it's for a coffee date or a catch-up session, spending time with loved ones can provide comfort and support during challenging times. If you have kids, engage in some playful activities with them. Build a fort, have a tea party, or play a board game together. Their laughter and innocence can bring a sense of joy and lightness to your day. Finally, why not treat yourself to a nice meal at a restaurant? Allow someone else to do the cooking and indulge in a delicious dish without any worries. Pampering yourself with good food can be a simple yet effective way to lift your mood and enjoy a moment of relaxation. So, this weekend, make it a point to engage in activities that bring you happiness and peace.
Talk to someone
In Las Vegas, it's completely acceptable to seek solace in conversation with others when you're feeling overwhelmed. With an emotionally charged weekend ahead, the city's residents are likely to be grappling with a mix of emotions. Thankfully, there are numerous individuals who are more than willing to lend an ear and provide a sympathetic ear to those in need. Don't hesitate to reach out and find comfort in sharing your thoughts and feelings with someone who is willing to listen. Remember, there's no shame in seeking support when you need it most.
I wonder if I will need that again this year, just like I did last year. Catching up with friends and family over the weekend is something I'm looking forward to. It doesn't matter if we don't discuss the unfortunate event; the mere act of connecting with loved ones whom I haven't spoken to in a long time will bring a sense of joy and comfort.
Looking for someone to have a conversation with? Look no further - your companion has arrived.
Following the incident, I promptly extended the identical proposal and engaged in email correspondences with numerous individuals, ultimately benefiting all parties involved.
If you're in need of a listening ear, kindly drop your email in the comment section. Rest assured, it won't be made public, as I need to review and moderate it to ensure there's no spam. Once I receive your email, I'll reach out to you promptly. You can choose to remain anonymous if you wish; that's absolutely fine with me. I want you to know that whatever we discuss will be kept strictly confidential, and I won't share our conversation with anyone else. If we had a chance to connect in the aftermath of the incident last year, I would be delighted to hear from you once again.