Where Were You...

Today is now known as "Patriot's Day" here in America. It was 9 years ago that millions of lives were changed forever. Why millions? Because even though 4 planes only hit 3 buildings (1 being thwarted off course by the brave actions of passengers) those planes and buildings had people within. Not only did the buildings have people within working, more came rushing to do their job and rescue those inside. Unfortunately many would die. So many people lost. I can't imagine the terror and heartache that was and is felt this day because of the horrible actions made 9 years ago.

On that day I was getting ready for work when I heard on the radio that the towers had been struck. I quickly turned on the TV to see the news. It was horrific to see the planes crash into the buildings and the feel the anguish within your stomach. I knew my mother-in-law worked downtown and the fear that came over me! I tried to call the family there to make sure all were safe- away from this horrific scene and an automated recording said "Due to natural disaster all lines are busy." All I could think was there was no natural about it. Thankfully the family was able to reach us and all were safe. I couldn't take my eyes off the TV. When the buildings went down it was horrible. Knowing so many people were trapped inside, hoping that somehow a miracle would happen and they would all be rescued, but knowing that wouldn't be the case. Oh it was a horrific day. The shear tragedy of it all.

Just recently (within the past 2 months) I found out a woman at church had a brother on one of the planes that went into one of the buildings of the WTC. The absolute grief that not only she faced and continues to face, but her sister-in-law too. Another associate of mine, a business owner a few doors down from our store, had a dear friend lost in the WTC. It so happened that her nephew was on the phone with the friend when the tower was hit. She still deals with the grief of that day. I can only imagine the heartache that is felt for so many others.

Rob and I were able to visit Ground Zero a little more than a year after the event. It was absolutely one of the hardest things to see. At that point it was a giant pit- looked like a construction zone. It was different from a construction site by the mere reverence there. A homeless man was playing patriotic songs on a flute or piccolo. Then played Danny Boy. I began to cry. Red flowers were placed in the gate as a memorial by strangers. Posters, fliers, shirts, tiles were everywhere showing people still missing. You couldn't help but feel the heartache that resides there.

It was a horrific day- one full of tragedy. It is a day that will never be forgotten.

May God bless us.