It happened 10 years ago.

September 11, 2001, aka 9/11.   So famous, or maybe infamous, that you don't even have to say the whole date.  Kind of like Cher, Madonna, Ga-Ga....yet VERY different.  A day that changed the world as we knew it.  For Americans, it was very personal.  THEY came here.  THEY attacked US on our homeland.  We lost our innocence.  We lost our comfort zone.  Other countries saw that if it could happen here, it could also happen to them.   Just for a moment, the world seemed to stand still as we collectively held our breath; lost as to what would happen next.

The marvels of technology immediately brought this all into our homes.  Most of us were eye witnesses.  I remember watching the second plane hit and thinking it was a video of the first.   We heard the stories of valor and bravery.  Everyday people were suddenly leaders and heroes.  (John 15:13, "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.")   We heard the stories of a "destiny" changed  due to stopping at a drug store, missing a train, a child's first day of kindergarten.   We cried in sympathy for the loved ones lost.  We grieved for the children to come that would never feel the touch of Daddy.  The stories became known and personal to us.

Our daily lives changed.  Travelling will never be the same.  Agencies such as "Homeland Security" were formed.  Boarding an airplane took more time and got more complicated.  Suddenly, we were ultra aware of people around us; especially if they did not look like us.  Companies closed or scaled down due to uncertainty.  People lost jobs.  Commodities became more expensive.  Along with "stranger danger" and "stop, drop and roll", children learned of terrorists and not to use the word "bomb" on an airplane.    

Yes, the world changed that day.  So did we.  Actually, I hope that we never go back to where we once were.  We need to remember.  Along with the reality of all the horrors of those days, a new America was born.  Flag waving, proud Americans.  ONE nation under God.  Our flag suddenly looked a little brighter, more beautiful and a little more precious.  You will not hold us down.  Let's Roll!" was a new mantra.  We became just a little more proud and aware of the men and women who bravely serve in our military.  Have you ever stopped someone in a military uniform and thanked them for their service?  I have.  I don't remember doing that much before but now I just have to give them my meager "this will never be enough of a thank you for your service".

We have to remember lessons learned.  Such as ALWAYS remember to say "I love you". Don't take for granted that we will have lots of chances to.   Disasters can bring out the best in people.  Ten years ago, New York was flooded with people wanting to stand shoulder to shoulder with them to help.  That attitude needs to continue.  Our children need to see and learn from our example.  We are not by ourselves.  Be kind.   Be smart.  Be proud.   WE MUST NEVER FORGET.

Later.