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Grace and compassion at "ground zero," New York City
James R Rogers1, Karen M Soyka
1Department of Counseling, University of Akron, OH 44325-5007, USA. jrrogers@uakron.edu
Crisis
|September 24, 2004
Summary
Researchers found writing about their experiences at Ground Zero challenging, using the term "grace" to describe unexpected positive events that aided their work following the September 11th attacks.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Disaster Studies
Background:
- The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center (WTC) created a unique environment for responders.
- Documenting the psychological and practical experiences of working at Ground Zero presents significant challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the experiences of professionals working at Ground Zero.
- To find appropriate language to describe unexpected positive occurrences during disaster response.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative reflection on personal experiences at the WTC site.
- Exploration of terminology to articulate complex emotional and practical phenomena.
Main Results:
- The term "grace" was found to be a fitting descriptor for unsolicited positive events.
- Standard scientific terms like "luck" or "chance" were insufficient to capture the essence of these experiences.
- These "gifts" played a facilitating role in the responders' work.
Conclusions:
- The concept of "grace" offers a valuable, albeit unconventional, lens for understanding disaster response.
- Further exploration is needed to integrate such concepts into scientific and professional discourse.
- Acknowledging these experiences is crucial for understanding the human element in disaster recovery.