A disturbance in this neighborhood is nothing new, but tonight we actually woke up. We easily tolerate barking dogs, horn-tooting cars, and crying babies. These noises are forgivable. But now—since the new neighbors had moved in—new sounds disturb the familiar patina of neighborhood life.
They came quietly at first, not speaking our language and trying to fit in. But we didn’t let them. They must have felt unloved and unwanted.
One morning, loud screaming came from their kitchen window and then crying and then a big bang. What to do? Should we call the police? Should we go over and investigate—maybe even help? Typically Swiss, none of us wanted to interfere; no one ventured over. And things quieted down.
Later, in the supermarket, I saw the woman. She was hiding under a big scarf, but a blue-green bruise peeked through. I felt like holding her hand, hugging her, asking her to my house—but I didn’t. I wasn’t able to break free from my strict, socially molded corset.
—Susi Spinatsch
March 12, 2012
Wow, very powerful...eager to read more!
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