what is a broken arrow?

BROKEN ARROW is the code word used for an unexpected event involving nuclear weapons in the accidental launching, firing, detonating, theft or loss of weapon.  When I heard this term on the radio yesterday, I linked BROKEN ARROW to the accidental emotional launches that happen in my nuclear family life.

nu·cle·ar/adjective
1.  relating to the nucleus of an atom
2.  BIOLOGY; relating to the nucleus of a cell

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As a 51-year-old woman, married since I was 25, and raising twin 17-year-old girls, a BROKEN ARROW can easily be disarming—hopefully not devastating.

There have been thirty-two BROKEN ARROW incidents since 1950.  I’ve had many more. However, maybe with more awareness I can launch less frequently.  I’m quite certain my nuclear family would appreciate the diplomacy.

BROKEN ARROW: an accidental emotional launch

reference link: ATOMIC ARCHIVE 

2 thoughts on “what is a broken arrow?

  1. Broken Arrow
    Who else is gonna bring you a broken arrow
    Who else is gonna bring you a bottle of rain
    There he goes moving across the water
    There he goes turning my whole world around
    – by Robbie Robertson

    • Lisa Lillibridge/Dakota 1966 – I grew up roaming and scavenging the plains of southern South Dakota. That childhood landscape instilled a desire for spaciousness that's stayed with me into adulthood. My work often reflects these themes.
      Lisa Lillibridge/Dakota 1966 on said:

      Thank you, Mark. I will be seeking out Mr. Robertson’s song. Beautiful lyrics.

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