Mom's Minute

Remembering 9/11

We will never forget.  Today, September 11, 2013 marks the 12th year since the terrorists' attack on the United States that happened on September 11, 2001.  As with major catastrophes and tragedies of this magnitude,  you may remember exactly where you were when you heard the news that not one, but two planes had crashed into the twin towers of the World Trade Center. You may also remember the memorable words  of "Let's roll" as a courageous hero led a group of airline passengers and bravely fought evil on that day.

We will never forget

As we go about our daily lives, let's remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.  If you were in the United States on that day, you may have experienced the atmosphere of bewilderment that seemed to embrace and engulf the greatest nation in the world.  As the realization of what happened permeates your mind, you may have been one of the many who wanted to do something to help those affected by this tragedy in any way that you could.  Maybe you pitched in and gave of your time  to somehow try to diminish the horrors of that day, whether it was volunteering, giving to the Red Cross, or a myriad of other things, that could help the families of the 9/11 heroes.

Personally, I coordinated a fund raising drive, collected money and drove to the local Red Cross and donated the money a group of us had raised.  I still remember the exhilerating, emotional feeling I got when I handed the donation envelope to the Red Cross administrator and stated that the money was collected for the families of the victims of the 9/11 terrorists attacks.  I felt that in some small way, we had done something that would ease the pain from this tragic event. You may have done something similar or you may have simply kept the families in your thoughts and prayers.

In memory of the heroes of 9/11

On the day of and the days following 9/11, you may have also marveled at how America showed the world that we are a proud and resilient people.  I still recall seeing lots of people driving around with the United States flag flying from the roof of their vehicles.   We were telling the world that if  they try to knock us down, we will stand back up  even taller and stronger than before.   I also recall seeing televised around the world the divided members of the U.S. Congress standing together on the steps of the White House in Washington D.C. in unison, praying together as if they were seemingly one.

With the subsequent U.S. victory in destroying the terrorist who masterminded a plan that would end the lives of innocent Americans on that day, America showed its muscles as well as why it is the greatest country in the world. With the stepped up security and other measures being taken, we demonstrate that today and in the days to come, we remain vigilant.

During your busy day today, hopefully you took the time to observe a moment of silence in honor of the unsung heroes who gave their ultimate sacrifice for freedom.  Know that even though they may not be here in body, they are here in soul and spirit knowing that the tragic, fateful day, September 11, 2001 will never be forgotten.

May America remain the leader and victor of the world, and even more importantly, may God forever bless the United States of America.