Where Were You?
Seventeen years ago I was serving as an assistant principal at an elementary school. It was a beautiful morning and I was enjoying a rare break from being at the school by attending a United Way Kickoff Breakfast in a nearby city. As I drove back to school thinking about all that needed to be done that day, my thoughts were interrupted by the events that were taking place in New York City. The World Trade Center had been hit.
I remember thinking, "We're at war."
The events that unfolded on that day were such a shock to the system. My nerves were raw. I cried for people that I didn't know. I cried for the United States of America. I was angry, sad, and mad all at the same time. I prayed.
However, as terrible as the acts on September 11, 2001 were, the acts of heroism and bravery that occurred as a result were such examples of sacrifice, unconditional love, service, honor, and duty. The patriotism and sense of unity after the attacks were evident everywhere.
How quickly we forget though. The divisiveness and vitriol we see and hear today is unrelenting. I pray that we remember this day...to pause, reflect, and pray. May we once again devote ourselves to being united. What we have in common is so much more than what we don't.
Never forget. Future generations are counting on us to preserve this great Country of ours and to continue to be the beacon of freedom shining from the hilltop.
Matthew 5:14-16
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
I remember thinking, "We're at war."
The events that unfolded on that day were such a shock to the system. My nerves were raw. I cried for people that I didn't know. I cried for the United States of America. I was angry, sad, and mad all at the same time. I prayed.
However, as terrible as the acts on September 11, 2001 were, the acts of heroism and bravery that occurred as a result were such examples of sacrifice, unconditional love, service, honor, and duty. The patriotism and sense of unity after the attacks were evident everywhere.
How quickly we forget though. The divisiveness and vitriol we see and hear today is unrelenting. I pray that we remember this day...to pause, reflect, and pray. May we once again devote ourselves to being united. What we have in common is so much more than what we don't.
Never forget. Future generations are counting on us to preserve this great Country of ours and to continue to be the beacon of freedom shining from the hilltop.
Matthew 5:14-16
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
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