There are simply no words. No words for the brutal slashing of three courageous throats. No words for the brave actions taken by three ordinary people who put their lives on the line defending two young women they did not know.
There are no words for the anguish suffered by the victims’ families and friends. No words for the nightmares to come for the two young women who endured this horrific crime. Still, we try to come to terms with it.
“The nation has some soul-searching to do,” says Liam, a high school senior. “We think we have this perfect Republic, but we have work to do. We need to be more understanding, more inclusive, pay more attention to people on the edge.”
There are no words for what afflicted the failing, flailing mind of the attacker. No words for how to prevent disturbed ex-cons from falling through cracks – on the outside and in their own mind. But that can’t stop us from finding the words.
“I call people out once in awhile who are being abusive,” a slight, young woman says. “I feel it’s important to do it.” A man next to her adds, “It takes courage, and practice. Knowing what to say and when.”
There are no words for those who remain silent. There ARE words, however, for those who speak up for people being abused or victimized. We should never fail to utter those words, whatever they may be. We owe it to the men who spoke their final words last Friday near the Hollywood Transit Station – where MAX, Bus 75, and people of all kinds connect.
Rick Best and Taliesin Myrddin Namkai-Meche who died, and Micah David-Cole Fletcher who survived (a poet no less), are heroes we should hold dear to our hearts. Forever.
The father of Taliesin Meche, the 23 year old who was fatally stabbed, and Rachel Macy, who comforted Taliesin until the medics arrived.
There are no words for those who remain silent. There ARE words, however, for those who speak up for people being abused or victimized. Valor, vigilance, hero.
BUS 75: HIDDEN PORTLAND 
Beautifully written.
Those three people were true heroes.
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Absolutely spot on, Geoffrey and Tom. Your words and photos capture the respect for the situation that it so richly deserves. Thank you for your talents and time to this tragedy … I’m sure it helps to reset the compass in the right direction for all those who see it.
Susie and Bernie Fagan
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This is gorgeous and that last picture is GOLD! That is Talliesin’s father hugging the woman who stayed with Tilly on the train, trying to save his life and hearing his last words. Please be sure this photo gets to the family.
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