For me, Something To Be Proud Of

Here in New York City we are preparing for this the 10^th anniversary standing united, vigilant, and aware. “Special Reports,” and “Breaking News” in the past two weeks, we have endured a tremor and Hurricane Irene we are on high alert. In preparation of the ceremony in remembrance of 9/11 we are asked to go about our routines as usual. Holding my chin high, I cannot help but to feel a little edgy because the news announcements and this feeling reminds me of the days drawing closer and closer to the year 2000 or more ominously Y2K.

Two weeks ago the news reports were breaking every hour preparing the northeastern seaboard for an approaching hurricane and I was hired to give a tour. The group was arriving via cruise ship; however, with no ship to shore contact, I had no idea if the group would arrive or not. Preparing for the in coming hurricane I was stocking up with provisions, filling my bathtub, as reporters instructed while more details began to hit the airwaves. I was aware that mandatory evacuations were in place and my zone was basically 2 blocks away from the red zone and therefore, I was a little on edge myself. Low and behold at 8:30 am about 12 hours before the expected storm my phone rings, the ladies had arrived.

Barely awake, I logged into my computer to get the latest information in order to prepare these guests and was very concerned knowing that the Subway system was going to be shut down. It was unprecedented to have mass transit shutdown. For the ‘New Yorker’ in me it was similar to the feelings I had ten years ago.

In the whirlwind of emotions today, I received this letter from the lovely lady that coordinated that tour two weekends ago and it comes at such perfect time and with it, it brings comfort to my heart.

Dear Sean,

Our cruise ship had been racing hurricane Irene for several days, hitting Puerto Rico right after our departure.

When we arrived in New Jersey, there were so many rumors flying around, we were all a bit unsettled. We had pre-booked your tour, however we doubted you would come. We were told that all bridges and public transportation were closed.. If the driver couldn’t make it there, we were literally stranded. All airports were closed and N.J. hotels full.

So, this is the state we were in when the driver did arrive.

You were truly the light for us in all of that turmoil. First, you gave us the most interesting tour. All of your stories and descriptions brought your NYC alive for us. You could not have been more caring or more sensitive to our predicament. You went above and beyond by taking us to find some food and water. Never have I had that kind of treatment. You are personal. You are very giving and caring. The ladies all agree that your tour was the highlight of NY.

Thank you so much for being our angel on that day. We all came away richer for having spent that day with you.

With Much Gratitude,

Marilyn R.

P.S. You probably don’t need it, however if you want to use the above as a testimonial you have my permission.

So let it be known that through rain, sleet, snow, and yes, even hurricane the tour will go on!