Today we focus on the loss our nation had 7 years ago when 4 planes were hijacked and flew into the heart of our democracy, our freedom and our way of life. 9-11-01. A day that changed the course of American routine. American politics. American spirit.
Today I consider all the things that encompassed the lives of those who lost loved ones that day. I think of the incredible vacuum of those left behind and what may have filled it through these years. The regrets. The guilt. The pain. The anger. The bitterness. The love. The inspiration. The dedication. The hope for a future where this would never happen again.
Did they have an argument with their spouse, their son, their daughter that morning? Did they kiss them good-bye before they left on what none could have predicted would be the last chance to do so? Did they say a prayer for their safety? Had they reconciled their anger over differences they held?
As I consider the unrelated loss of my dear son on May 8th, 2005, I am reminded of my own relationships. All the little aggravations we'd faced days prior to his death, paled in significance to hearing the news that he was gone. Never again would I have an opportunity to tell him I loved him. Never again would I have a chance to say I am sorry. Never again would I need to be annoyed with a habit he had not changed. Never again would I need to loan him some money, or bale him out of a situation. Never again would I need to pray for his needs. Never again would it be necessary to worry, fret or be aggravated with his behavior. Never again would I feel the comfort of his bear hugs, hear the sound of his voice, nor have to search for a Christmas gift.
Today I am reminded that life is fragile. Treasure it. Life is limited. Savor it. Life is not a guarantee; it is a privilege. With the privilege comes incredible responsibility: A responsibility to respond to the Creator by loving the people around us. A responsibility to have compassion where none is seen from others. A responsibility to encourage where we find discouragement. To give generously as we have prospered. To hope when others are hopeless. To forgive when others hold grudges. To love when others do not. To praise when others condemn. To build up when others tear down.
Today, this is what comes to mind when I consider the terrorists who sought to destroy America's spirit and resolve. This is what comes to mind when I consider the significance of my son's life and the vacuum of his loss in mine. I want to fill my heart and mind with these things. This is what I never want to forget today. I may not have another chance tomorrow. selahV
[© SelahV Today, hariette petersen, 2008]
