This morning, my husband will pack a suitcase and get on a plane.
I am more than a bit mindful of the irony.
You see, ten years ago today, he innocently boarded a similar flight. It was a crisp, fall day then. It is a crisp, fall day now. His mind that day was undoubtedly on the meetings ahead; not on the horror that would follow.
Today, as he looks around the terminal at his fellow passengers, I can't help but wonder if the thoughts are running through his head. Who among them has a heart full of hate? Who has children? Who is all alone? Who will never get to mend fences with loved ones or say goodbye? Who will not live to make it back home?
My fervent prayer is that those questions will not be answered. Today or any day in the future.
The days following the terror attacks ten years ago were surreal. Where we lived, normally reserved and crusty New Englanders stopped and hugged strangers on the street. Petty troubles were forgotten, crime virtually disappeared.
It felt as though we had a unified purpose. We became one people, with one heart. We were a nation under attack, and we refused to let the terror win. We rallied around political leaders, regardless of our preferred party. We took the time to call family and make sure they were okay. For once, we didn't mind waiting in line at the store or the traffic light. We found patience for our children. We clasped hands with strangers and prayed together. We felt our hearts ache for those less fortunate.
In short, we were exactly as we should be.
I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to see my country at its best. My children have never seen this firsthand, and I pray it doesn't take another horrific act of violence to bring it about again. Please take today, and remember what it felt like in those few weeks following 9-11. Remember the pride you felt for your country and your people. Remember the love you had for your fellow man and forgive those who have hurt you. Be kind to strangers and refrain from judging others. Be patient and thoughtful. Help those in need.
Live just a little bit better.
BE just a little bit better.
And, please, don't ever forget.
7 comments:
Stie. That was just beautiful. I cried as I read (and Little John said, "Aaaa cry?").
I love how you pointed out that we were a country at our best in the weeks that followed. So true. Thank you for this post. It is so important to be a little better.
I read your link again, too. Thank you for bringing such humanity to such tragedy.
Saw the news programs coverage of the two reflecting ponds. What a beautiful tribute and comfort to the survivors. Good job, NYC.
Such good advice and something we would all do better to heed. It would be tragic if this tragedy only changed us on the anniversary of its happening.
Beautiful, as always.
I went into Boston today on the T. I was on the bus (long story t-construction)being shuttled to N. Quincy from Braintree when a boy, barely 18 got on. He was dressed in true "gang" attire, including a partially covered head and pants around his knees.
Not someone I'd normally strike up a conversation with, ya know?
Anyway, he asked me how to get to the State house. He took in the directions, and then looked down at his shoes. He paused and said... "Today is a sad day for me... my Aunt and Uncle were on the first plane."
My eyes filled up and it was all I could do to keep my crazy suburban white girl self from hugging him.
Just thought I'd share.
Josh is so lucky, and so are all of us. -J
Beautiful post Christie!
Christie, I feel so lucky to be able to call you my friend. I love this post.
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