Sunday, September 11

GOD BLESS AMERICA! As we reflect on the tragic events of 10 years ago my hope is that we always remember that day but at the same time move our lives forward in a meaningful way. When I think of what the terrorists hoped to steal from us on that day, I believe it was our sense of security. The security of living in a country of freedoms that many cannot even imagine. It is not that we don't experience a loss of security as individuals, every time someone is the victim of a home invasion, an assault or a kidnapping they feel violated. The difference is the magnitude of the attack. 9/11 like Pearl Harbor affected so many people at one time that we collectively felt a loss of safety in our own country. I remember how the climate of our country changed after that day ten years ago, we were more vigilant. I am somewhat saddened that our children are growing up in an atmosphere where an abandoned backpack could contain a bomb instead of a peanut butter sandwich. We did became a more patriotic country following the attacks and it was very refreshing. I also remember it didn't seem to take very long before it was life as usual for most Americans. At the time I was a little disappointed but as I ponder those feelings today, I think it may be a testament to the American spirit. The same spirit that made this country what it is today. If we live in fear then the terrorists have won. So we must show that spirit of resiliency and determination that we will not let a few steal that freedom. "Americans do not live in fear, Americans live in freedom". (a quote from 9/11 Remembered) God bless the families of those who lost their lives on that day and those who have died since in the continued fight against terrorism.

May your days be a little brighter, may you smile more often and may you hold those you love a little tighter as we learn to live in this ever changing world. Love makes all things possible.