When you stop and reflect back upon September 11, 2001 it’s so difficult not to be humbled by the enormity of that disastrous morning.
We all remember where we were and what we felt while watching the events unfold. Initially it seemed like an accident but soon it became apparent that our country was under attack.
The surrealism was numbing.
Lives were lost. Families were broken. A nation was severely wounded.
Twelve years have come and gone and while collectively we say that we’ll never forget – sometimes we do.
We get back into our routines doing the best that we can to provide for our families, struggling for the legal tender. That’s what freedom enables. Yet we take it for granted, perhaps not intentionally. It’s just that we’ve never known anything else.
We take freedom for granted because we’ve always been protected.
Somewhere out there are men and women patrolling our borders, watching all activities, all movements with discerning eyes and suspicious minds.
We don’t see them, but they are there monitoring any potential threats against the United States of America – any threats to our freedom, freedom that ushers in your ability to enjoy life as an American, all courtesy of those who protect us.
To all of the soldiers who selflessly risk their lives – THANK YOU!
To all of the families of soldiers who support their passion and nurturing desire to protect – THANK YOU!
To all of the policemen and firemen who put themselves in harms way to secure our country’s infrastructure – THANK YOU!
To all of the volunteers who freely give of their time and resources in their own patriotic ways – THANK YOU!
I’m reminded at this time of a moment I experienced a couple of months ago while in a drive-thru at Starbucks. As I tried to pay for my coffee and coffee cake, the cashier said, “You are all paid up. The lady in front of you took care of your tab.”
I saved $4.50 for my breakfast, but more importantly I received a lesson for a lifetime.
That kind pay-it-forward kind of gesture lifted my day and since I’ve done it a couple of times for others. The gift of giving really is that – a gift.
Try it!
Perhaps today, tomorrow, the next day or all of the above, during your daily travels, if you see a soldier, a police officer or fire fighter, shake their hand and say thank you.
It’s a small price to pay for such a huge dividend – your freedom.
It’s a great way to REALLY remember.
