To Sinan, who posts frequently. And to my friends Baba, TJ, Ali, Selim, the crew of the Sunshine Boat, the small boys of Derynkuyu, and the many nameless Turks who made our trip to Turkiye one of the most memorable trips ever, and who made us truly love and admire the Turkish people/

We mourn the losses of your friends and neighbours. We know that most of the casualties were people like you and me, people we fell in love with in Turkiye. Regular people, who love, work, have family, are kind people, who are not particularly political, and who practise Islam like the average Canadian practises Christianity.

Not that that this matters. Mohammed would not have done this. This is the damage of hatred not prophets.

Bad people should not be allowed to frighten your peace. You should not be forced to be victims of senseless war when you are a peaceful and strong nation. You must remember that many of us who have been touched by the kindness of your people are now grieving for you and asking, what is this madness?

Be strong. You will overcome.

Sorry, I missed Murat. My condolences also to you and your family. You do not realize how many people who love Turkiye have tears in their eyes. You would find this overwhelming. We who have been there are so concerned about you but we know that you realize that a few rebels can not wipe out our admiration and friendship for Turks.

My sympathy joins with you.

To Sinan and other Turkish Fodorites, my prayers are with you.

Thank you all.

Hi Carolred...

Thank you for sharing the toughts with us... I do not know if you mentioned me but.... Thanks God none of my friends and family hurt on the bombings but our hearts are hurt.... A friend survived from HSBC buildings 3rd floor whom I met this Bayram ( festive days after Ramazan ) and had dinner with. For those who lost their lives is a loss for humanity... We will be even stronger and we will love much more and care much more about each other regardless the nationality or religion.

Murat the propertraveller