Last year on the 10 year anniversary of September 11th, I asked you, my bloggy friends, to share where you were when you heard about the terrorist attack on our nation.
This year, Facebook seems eerily quiet about it being September 11th. Is it just me or did any one else notice? Last year, it was every where.
Maybe because it was the 10 year anniversary, although I’m not really sure.
But I know for me, personally speaking, my life forever changed on September 11th, 2001.
Being perfectly vulnerable, it actually changed a lot. I never would have guessed that America could have someone do something so unexpected and horrific and succeed on many fronts. And of course, having grown up with lots of fears, there was much opportunity to live in fear again {which I had to remind myself of God’s faithfulness at each opportunity for fear}.
But I don’t just think about it as September 11th rolls around, do you? The memories of watching September 11th unfold are always not too far from my thoughts. The loss. The agony of watching it all unfold. America’s vulnerability.
Am I the only one who seems to have it continually lurking not far
from the back of my mind?
I often think of Isreal and how those living there have random attacks at any given time. What must that do to the emotions of those residing in Isreal? My emotions just cannot forget that day. They cannot forget all the loss and the weird part is that I wasn’t even actually ‘there’, you know what I mean?
But this is my country.
And then there’s Liberty doing a report on the September 11th attacks. She’s been researching a bunch, reading a ton and we’ve been talking a lot about it all.
I can feel the tears well as we remember it all.
So here is my question for you, my friend.
Did September 11th change your life?
Do you think about it all often?
A lot?
A little?
Not really much anymore?
And if it did change your life, how did it?
And on this day, I pay heroic tribute to the brave men and women who lost their lives in an attempt to save some one else.
To the courageous folks, just like you and me, who brought the plane down in Pennsylvania to protect our nation’s capital.
To our Homeland Security who continually monitors the safety of America and to our devoted military who signed up because they didn’t want what happened to America happening again…all of you…thank you.
Your selfless love for others is exactly why I am so proud to be an American.
So did it change your life?
Talk to me.
Please.
I was pregnant with my oldest when 9/11 happened. I remembered jumping out of bed and then thinking I have to get to my family. I drove the 45 minutes to my hometown on an island, only to be stopped by State Troopers. The bridge and ferries we take to get on and off the island were closed. They were being inspected for bombs. Can you imagine my terror? These are vessels and roads I travel daily, the thought of a terrorist destroying them was unreal. When I finally made it onto the island. It was a chilling place, almost like a ghost town. Our small military base was on high alert. Military men and women were being shuttled onto the base and getting ready to defend our country at a moment's notice. I have lived my entire life next to this base, but for the first time I realized its importance. The fact that all of those people were there to protect me and my daughter. It was a very sobering realization. Many of those men and women have since served across the country to fight against terrorism. I am forever grateful for their sacrifice. I am daily reminded of it as I hear the sound of freedom fly over us as we go about our lives. While I wasn't at ground zero, it changed my life forever.
I can only imagine your terror not being allowed on your island…your home. So thankful, with you, for those who protect our nation.
Yes, it changed my life…it makes me shaky in an airport, looking at the people around me. It makes me look around in an airplane, wondering if this is the flight where someone got by security. It makes me fearful when I hear about casualties across the ocean, wondering if it is someone I know. It makes me sad that children under 11 have never had the opportunity to live in a world without fear and war. Yes, it has changed my life. But, all in all, my King is higher than all this sadness and fear, so I turn to Him, and know he will take care of me.
I, like you, am definitely attentive in airports. A couple of years after 9/11 I was going to fly alone somewhere I needed to go. I wanted to go, but fear was rearing its ugly head. I asked the Lord for a verse. Immediately He showed me Psalm 57:10. His faithfulness reaches to the skies. Now, if you were on a flight with me, you would find me with my Bible open to Ps 57:10. I cling to it. He is faithful, all the way to the sky.
Thank you for that verse! I have begun a mission partnerahip in Galina, St. Mary, Jamaica, the poorest parish in all of Jamaica, through my church. It is likely that I will be flying there at least once a year over the next few years. Flying into and out of Jamaica is frightening because of the large cannabis farming there. They apparently scope out foreigners and stash drugs in your luggage when you aren't paying attention. Having this scripture will definitely help with that travel!
I think it is different because we live in a very military community, we see tanks, planes, and members in uniform everyday. As a retired Army nurse I try to instill in my children that freedom isn't free – it is everyone's responsibility. Then I realized last night that all but 1 of my children were even alive during these events. I remember cuddling his toddler body that morning.
I also realized as I was getting them together to find red, white, and blue for school today, that most had no idea why. I was at a loss for words in explaining these events without instilling the very fear you talk about.
I would love to know how others explain this to their children. The quote "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it" ways heaviest on my heart.
We talk about it openly as a family. So they remember the facts and the truth of our nation's history. We talk about the emotions of it too, from a Biblical perspective. Fear is part of our lives, whether it's the rattlesnake Graham and Liberty encountered in July while going to feed the neighbors dogs or some other event. We just have to help our kids discern whether it's a rational fear from God or irrational. That's just how we do it at our home. It's working.
Hi Linny, Yes it changed this girls life; I went from being so naive thinking we weren't vulnerable and nothing like that could ever happen here to thinking about our security. Of course the other day when I was in a movie theater I also thought about the Aurora shootings and felt that uncertainty again. I've noticed the news isn't playing a lot about that day either. I'm so grateful for those who daily give their lives to allow us to live in safety. Sending hugs your way.
Noreen
Emma treated me to the movies a few weeks back. Aurora definitely crossed my mind. The world is definitely not the same.
Yes, it changed my life dramatically. I was in the middle of student teaching. When I walked out of school that day, I didn't return. God used that day to show me my place was at home raising our 10 month old and supporting my husband (who I feared may deploy). I don't regret getting off the hamster wheel of trying to succeed like the world thinks I should. I am thankful for doing what God wants me to.
amy in ga
Wow! You're right! Your life changed dramatically! I am so thankful you were able to go home and be with your son, for good.
It is always lurking in my mind.And,yes,I think it changed my life,in that,this was the first time I saw our nation as vulnerable to real outside threat.I guess before I saw our country as a bubble of safety from any major threats.It also gave me far more compassion for those that deal will threats to their lives on a daily basis.I became even more appreciative for those men and women who voluntarily serve and work so hard to keep us all safe and free.Today during our homeschooling time,we are talking about taking time out of our day anytime we see a serviceman or woman just to simply go up to them and say-Thank you so very much.I think that is not said or heard enough and we need to be oh so grateful.
I am grateful to hear how many, like me, were changed forever. And thank you for thanking the service men and women. They need to hear it all the time, because they definitely hear negative stuff too.
When it happened, I was at home getting ready to go to class at Texas Tech. I had the news on and it showed the first tower being hit. I called Mom to tell her what had happened and right when I got her on the phone, the second plane hit. I just remember being in shock. Driving to class, there were reports of everywhere being hit (the White House and such). My professor had no clue what was going on at the time, so it was lecture as always. After that, I just left and went home. I watched the tv for days.
11 years ago. It's hard for me to go through today as if it is any other day. In the midst of remembering those lost, those brave policemen and firemen, and those serving to protect our country now, it's also a shock to see how different America is from that day 11 years ago. I miss the unity that was felt by all Americans. The automatic concern for the welfare of others, the blurring of the political sides. And most of all, a nation that seemed to be on their knees before God.
Heather, missing the unity, the concern, being on our knees {together} is America's greatest loss. I'm with you.
I never realized how much Sept. 11 would change everything, forever.
After Sept. 11, the economy collapsed and my college drastically raised its tuition. I am so lucky to have finished most of my college before Sept. 11. My loans were a lot less than my younger siblings.
I find it so sad how so many people are suspicious now of Muslims and people who have darker complexions. There were two mosques that recently burned down a few hours away from me. I feel so sad hearing a "Christian" political group say Muslims should not be allowed to serve in the U.S. military. The USA was founded for religious freedom; everyone deserves that, not just Christians.
We have been in a "War on Terror" for so long. I feel like this constant "looking for the enemy" is really tearing us apart as a country. I think the "War on Terror" is contributing to our really polarized political climate. We start to see members of the opposite political party as the enemy. We are all Americans. Neither Bush or Obama is the enemy.
I never, ever thought on Sept. 11 that there would be so many long-term effects.
I guess I know a whole lot more than what many might be privy to because of having a son in the special forces.
I was only nine when September 11th happened. Although I was such a young age, I would have to say that September 11th did change my life. Before, I never really thought anything like this could happen in America. I hadn't yet learned about the Oklahoma city bombing or the bombing at the WTC when Clinton was president. I thought America was a safe country and that the threat of war was something of the past, before I was born. After the attack on the WTC I realized that my little 9 year old world wasn't the happy go lucky place that I thought it was. 11 years ago, I became more aware of the going ons in the world. I payed more attention to the news. I also became more sympathetic for the people who died in the attacks and those putting their lives on the line to help protect our country. I remember the evening of September 11th the kids in my neighborhood, ages 3-11 held a candle light vigil for the victims of the attack.
Your candlelight vigil sounds like such a beautiful way to talk to young ones about the tragic events of that day.
It did change my life as each time I go through security at an airport, I'm a little more understanding about the long lines. Every time someone mentions NYC, it rolls across my mind. Sometimes when thinking of my brother who is a firefighter, I stop to think of those in the towers. I can't say I think of it daily but more like every couple of months something triggers a thought. My daughter, 8, knows and asks questions. My son, 7, is really first learning about the day this year. It's hard to balance knowledge without causing fear although I say some fear is healthy just not overwhelming fear as you have mentioned.
Some fear is healthy. I knew a woman, once upon a time, who refused to tell her kids of anything that was not happy. In my book, that's just not reality and is not setting them up to deal with real life in the days ahead.
To answer your question YES.
I remember sitting alone that afternoon (England time) unable to move from the sofa, not believing what I was seeing. My mum kept ringing for updates as she was at work and had an anxious co-worker waiting to hear from a loved one who was visiting near the world trade centre. (they were fine and safe)
It was on hearing my hubbys car that I got up and went to open the front door. I remember looking out down the road and wondering how many people driving past/walking knew what had happened. Life was going on like always, yet in America it had changed forever.
Just seeing the video clips of the events brings memories of where I was. It made me wary of people. Life went on and near the anniversary I would see those haunting images and remember.
However here in England just under 4years later something did happen that brought feelings closer to home.
I was 20 weeks pregnant with Samuel, and had gone into the special needs school that I worked occasionally for. Nothing strange there but what I had heard and seen on the news was very scary.
The london underground and bus bombings. Although 300 miles away from me, this was to close for my liking!
More haunting images, loss of life and acts of bravery.
Then jump to April last year and the opportunity to meet you, Emma and the team on way home from Uganda. My dream come true BUT it meant going to London on the train with Samuel.
Overground trains felt Ok when not in London. Underground trains on my own or with my child left me very nervous. I disliked before now I had fears. All the journey we stood near to exits and I looked around at people. It makes you very suspicious! BUT I wasn't going to let this opportunity pass! So with many prayers said on the journey I got to HUG your neck!!( and one day a memorial box about the provision of funds to get us there to see you!)
Have been back to London a few times since, still don't like the underground, wary of people down there, BUT plenty of prayers and we get the journey done.
We will never forget,
Love, hugs and prayers XXX
Oh Rebecca, I am so thankful that you came to meet us. Love you!
I was 26 years old…with little ones at home. I was in my kitchen fixing breakfast for them when I heard the news coming from the television in the other room.
I remember the sense of helplessness to do anything or to keep myself or anyone I love safe. I can relate to the fear. We did not know the end from the beginning of such a day and how it would all be carried out.
The plane went down in PA, not very far from where I live. Only about 45 minutes and that was also VERY close to home for me. As though DC weren't close enough.
There are times when it comes to mind and I believe it is an unction from God to pray. I also pray for the military and for the safety of this nation often and I think the dilligence to do so is a direct result of 9/11. Had this never happened, would our safety be taken for granted? There is no price that can be put on a life… and for those who are working self-lessly and without accolades, what they are doing is invaluable. They participate in a prosperity which many do not comprehend. Perhaps they don't themselves, but God does and He will reward them openly.
I could take up miles of comment space here… thanks for fellowshipping with us.
45 minutes from the Pennsylvania field? Wow. That is waaaaay too close for comfort. That is the part of the 9/11 that holds the most powerful emotion, the phone call with Todd Beamer and the operator. Knowing what the folks on that flight were willing to do…heroes in the truest sense of the word. Thank you for sharing. xo
I was a senior in high school when this tragedy took place. As news began to spread, teachers began turning on the in-classroom tv's. My classmates and I stared fixedly as the reports kept coming. We stayed in our math class for a good portion of that day as the schools were all on lock down. No one could get in, and no one could get out.
I live in Kissimmee/Orlando, tourist capital of the US, so there were immediate thoughts that we would be attacked next.
I did not know anyone in NYC or anyone personally who was affected. And yet, I cry tears the same as them. I take immense pride in my homeland and all the people in it. This was a heinous act of terroism that I hope is never repeated.
It is never far from my mind. I am reminded of it any time I see an American flag waving and even when I hear certain songs on the radio.
I'm so glad you are teaching your children about it. The younger generation needs to continue to learn of the tragedy of that day. It forever changed the face and even the hearts of all Americans.
I am thankful for the pride you take in America. We need it in the younger generations. Bless you my young friend.
I believe it shifted my perception on life as we knew it. Vulnerability….yes, and my levels of fear and the childhood belief of not being safe? Well, they certainly heightened for a long time. Bottom line, though, was my belief that God was still God. Joel was able to go out to NYC as a pastor to give one of the NY pastors a break from the burdens they were dealing with. It had a powerful affect on him. I still think about it from time to time, and on this day of course, but we focus on our oldest grandson this day too as it is his 14th birthday. I loved the way our country pulled together and wish we were still united that way….
That is so cool that Joel was able to go to minister. I bet THAT was life-changing as well! Happy birthday to your oldest grandson, as well.
Oh did it ever!
I didn't really "get" how my parents could remember where there were and what they were doing when Kennedy was shot or my grandparents, when Pearl Harbor was bombed but after 9-11 I get it. I was freaked out for quite awhile. It is still hard to wrap my head around the fact that there are people in this world who live with that kind of fear and the unknown every day of their lives. Our country may be in a world of hurt but considering what is going on in the middle east and parts of africa our military has allowed us to recover and resume our way of life. We just can't ever forget what that day and the days after felt like. Sheri
I was a little girl when Kennedy was shot…but I remember that. I remember exactly what I was doing when Martin Luther King was also killed. And you are right about what is going on in Africa/Middle East doesn't compare, but what our son says is that that's the reason they're there, so that it's not on our soil.
I was never particularly patriotic beforehand. I love our country and 4th of July but it wasn't until this hit, just over an hour away from where I lived that the time, did it truly change my heart and wake me up to the incredible blessings I have living in this country.
While I remember the date (9/11) I think I put more emphasis now on July 4th as a day of true gratitude and celebration!
Also, today…this day, in 2012…my husband stood in the American Consulate (without me..sniff sniff) in Guangzhou* China* to take an oath. In just 2 days he comes home with our two newest treasures! Praise God!
I am so excited for you all.
Yes, it did.
It changed my life in trivial ways: things like increased security at airports and the wondering, almost if not every time I board an airplane, if something like this will happen again with me on board.
It changed my life in far deeper ways. I took a class in my final year of college called Trauma, Culture, Memory, and we spent significant time discussing 9/11 and its impact on America and on the world. It was fascinating to analyze, but also heartbreaking. In some ways, it's still too recent to discuss in academia as though it were a story passed down through generations, rather than something every one of us in that room had experienced watching the very day it happened.
Last year I wrote this post, and I would say the biggest change in me was this discovery of an American pride and unity that fragmented soon afterwards, and of which I'm still holding fragments, wondering what it is that everyone else seemed to forget that I didn't, as I – and it sounds like you – watch the world stay mostly silent on this.
I was 10 when this happened, and I will never be the same person again, not only because I grew up, but because I think 9/11 made me grow up in a way almost nothing else could have.
From the comments, it seems that others have noticed that there is not much attention this year. Grateful to be able to "talk" about it with you and the other bloggy friends who need to talk as well.
Absolutely. My husband was set to leave to get his FTP pilot license so he could get out of the military (to be a commercial pilot) when September 11th happened. But that day changed everything. Nothing was certain anymore. No one had the same sense of safety or security any more.
We realized how blessed we were to be in the military still as my husband's peers, who had gotten out of the military, were being laid off right and left. We changed our minds and decided to stay in and my hubby is now retiring with 20 years 🙂
God was able to protect us from making a rash decision, and was able to use my husband to protect our country from future attacks taking place. God is sovereign and He is GOOD!
It changed your lives drastically as well. Thankful for your husband {and your} service to our nation. xo
Yes. It just made me realize that we CAN be vulnerable, and our little lives are capable of being turned upside down. However, I refuse to live in fear which is exactly what satan would like for us to do. I KNOW who is in charge of this world and where I will spend eternity. I love that new song by MercyMe called "You Are I Am." How comforting to know that He is everything, but most of all He is love.
You are so right! Satan would love us to live in fear. Talking about it helps to process the emotions and I'm thankful that this is a safe place to do that.
It definitely changed my life.
I was attending NYU at the time and was in my dorm at 200 Water Street in the financial district.
I woke up to my mom's panicked phone call. As the first tower collapsed I wasn't sure if my building was close enough that I was in danger. I watched the second tower collapse and was horrified that I may have just seen 20,000 people killed (at the time no one knew how many people were already in the buildings).
I was then evacuated, barefoot in my pajamas (because I'd been locked out of my dorm room when I went out to check what was happening since I was sure my mom was panicking for nothing) from the Financial District up to Greenwich Village. There was a whole sea of us evacuating and people were all being kind and helping each other – a stranger gave me a wet washcloth to cover my mouth so I could breath through all the smoke.
For the next few weeks, I cringed every time I heard a plane overhead unless it had the engine sound of a fighter jet.
For the next few years, I would get depressed around this time of the year.
And now, I can get through the day without being overly sad, but, I can't get through the day without thinking about all the lives lost and how my life changed that day. I hadn't really been a naive, innocent person before then, but, I definitely wasn't afterward – I became keenly aware that there were people in the world that would target me for no other reason than where I was born.
I work with a group called Project 2,996 to try to ensure that there is a memorial (on blogs, pinterest, websites, etc) for every innocent life lost that day.
I memorialize Harry Blanding Jr., beloved husband and father of 3. He sounded like a really great man.
http://itsybitsywriter.blogspot.com/2012/09/remembering-harry-blanding-junior-911.html
Wow. Your Project 2996 sounds like a beautiful thing. I am going to read your memorial to my kids today at Bible time. Thank you for sharing about it. Bless you.
Yes, it changed me. I do often wonder how the families of the first responders are doing and the ones who lost someone in the attacks. I was in my room sleeping when the attacks happened. We were supposed to go across the border to Canada that night for a concert. I couldn't believe what i was seeing on TV. My student, Anne, wanted to come over because she was going home to an empty house and didn't want to be alone. We talked about what was happening and I know it changed us both.
Heather
yes, I often wonder how the families who lost someone are doing too.
Hi Miss Linny,
I appreciated the reminder to remember again. I wrote about my experience here:
http://saramcnutt.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-911-commemoration.html
I'm so glad you choose to remember Sara. What a powerful post you wrote. I love hearing other woman speak TRUTH! Rock it sister!
September 11, 2001 will forever be imprinted in my mind. I sat unbelieving as the second plane hit, then the third and finally the fourth. With each hit asking my husband what was going on. I will never forget the look on President Bush's face when he was told. Now moving forward to September 11, 2007 I had the most precious gift placed in my arms. Our much prayed for granddaughter, for her safety and protection until we could get to her. Where was she you ask? China. Praise God for protecting her and giving her to us. Pam McDonald
That look on President Bush's face? It makes me well with tears every time I think of it.
No Linny, you are not alone in continually thinking about the terror attacks on Sept. 11. I was at a teacher training and when they first came out and announced it, we all thought it was part of the training to see how we would react in an emergency situation. It took them a couple of minutes to convince us it was for real. A lot of the principals at the training, went back to their schools, but the teachers stayed. We tried to carry on as best we could and would take a break about every hour to turn on the TV to see what was going on. For at least a year every time I heard a jet flying over sort of low I would have a panic attack. I still do to this day if something seems amiss. I agree it changed everything on that horrible day. An innocence was stolen forever. Once that happened we started having terror attack drills at school and it would so freak out my babies (I taught kindergarten) most of them would cry when we would have to "pretend" someone was trying to get in our classroom to kill us. Now a whole generation has grown up with that kind of stress and I think the world is a lot meaner place to live. I don't think we will ever fully recover from that horrific day.
This has been so good for me, because really, I wondered, as much of the nation appears to not ever think of it, it is clear, from reading the comments that that's simply not true.
I live in Sydney, Australia – so far from you in distance but emotionally I cried right along with everybody on that awful day. September 11, even 11 years later, is often on my mind. My daughter now lives in New York City which is probably why.
That day will forever be etched in my mind as one of the worst days of my life. My youngest daughter was only a few months old and all I could think was 'what sort of world have I bought her into'. As it turns out – while it's a tumultuous, often very difficult world – it's also one filled with a lot of love.
Thank you for grieving with us that horrible day.
Oh, yes, it changed my life. My closest co-worker at the time was the wife of a military reserve member. I remember seeing her face when we heard the second plane had hit the building and we both suddenly realized that more than likely we would be going to war. The look on her face was that of great concern for her husband and children. I still can envision that look in my mind!
God Bless America!
I can imagine that look forever etched.
It reawakened me as to how life can change so much in the blink of an eye. It showed me that this great nation I always felt so very safe in, wasn't as safe as I thought. It also taught me how great Americans are and how we step up in times of despair and how many heroes we have. People like Ty, who sacrifice and risk it all for us.
So thankful, with you, for all the heroes! xo
I kind of feel guilty, but it didn't really change me much. I mean, I think about it in somber reflection. It was horrible. I remember where I was. But… it doesn't change really anything about my every day life or my attitude toward life or living here in America. I suppose that if I had a son who risked his life everyday for the freedoms I have, my attitude might be different. So, forgive me, but it has faded from my mind over the past 11 years.
Thank you for your honesty Amy.
Yes. It change me forever. I remember like it was yesterday. The reaction of my sons, Rick and Daniel. Daniel calling me early that morning and calmly insisted that I turn on the news. Rick's calmness so far away in the air force reassuring me that we would be ok. And my youngest son James lost his innocence that day as we watched in disbelief together. I am haunted as he screamed out through his tears that they were jumping from the towers. "mama, the women are holding on to their skirts! mama, they're jumping! mama, they're falling!. He was only seventeen. He couldn't fathom why they would jump. Why did the women cared about their skirts flying. Why would anyone do this to people just going to work on a regular sunny day.
Yes, I think of it often. By the grace of God, we are blessed to live in this country where this is such a rare and heinous occurrance. I thank all of those who work daily to help insure our safety while maintaining our freedom.
Yes, God help me, I remember.
The people jumping is what has had the most profound impact on Liberty this year as she was writing her report on it all.
My son was just 13 months old on 9/11 and I clearly remember thinking, this changes the world he lives in. Before 9/11, I took my national security for granted. It never occurred to me that someone could think of or pull off something so sinister on our homeland! I remember seeing the smoke rising from the Pentagon and thinking, if the Pentagon can be attacked, then we are not safe. There is no place that is safe! I do think of 9/11 often, especially when flying (which I don't do often). I understand that we need Homeland Security and I do appreciate all they do to keep our planes safe, but I can't help but think that the terrorists won on some level, because we have given up some freedom every time we go through the body scanner or have to be patted down by an officer.
At the same time, I remember the patriotism that came out after 9/11. There was an American flag on every house and corner. We were united in our grief! Sadly, I think we've lost some of that! I wish we, Americans, were always that patriotic without it taking a national catastrophe to bring it out of us!
I would love to see flags on all the houses again. I miss that so much!
Praying for your nation, those people who died there and for everyone who lost family members and friends. May we never forgot. Thanks for this post.
xo
I noticed the absence of tributes as well 🙁 We didn't forget..My little Love went to preschool wearing a t-shirt with a sparkly flag on it and a matching red /white/blue bow in her hair. 9/11 most definitely changed my life. My husband joined the Marines(Our kids were 3, 5 and 7 at the time) So we have proudly adjusted to the life of deployments and missions. We have moved half way across the country away from all of our family so that he can continue to help protect our Country. 9/11 has made me fear the things my family should be enjoying. Living near Washington DC we should be enjoying the museums and monuments, the history and land marks..but it makes me very uneasy to go to those places because I have that constant fear of it being a target for attacks. The images of that day are FOREVER burned into my memory. God Bless the USA!
Please thank your husband for his service {and your family too}…pray about when to go to the landmarks rich in history and go! Don't miss out on living in such an amazing place because of fear. Truly – GO enjoy it all…
I still feel sick to my stomach when I think of 9/11. I had just been married less than a month. Now life seems like it is cut into 2 parts: before and after. When I think back to my wedding day, a magical day, it seems like a time of innocence. No one at my wedding could ever have imagined what was to happen in just 3 short weeks.
I didn't lose any close friends or family that day, but I am from the NYC area, and I spent that terrible day calling several friends who worked and/or lived in the city….over and over and over again. My father worked in New York for most of his career, almost everyone with whom I grew up had a parent who worked in New York. Those people who died in the towers were "my people" — it just hit so close to home.
One tiny good thing came from it, in a round about, very personal, sort of way. I had become almost obsessed with 9/11 and read everything on the topic….watched documentaries etc. While I was beginning to find my way to Jesus, I also happened to be reading Lisa Beamer's book "Lets Roll" about her husband Todd who helped land the plane in Pennsylvania. I was inspired by her story, by her faith, and by the story of Todd's faith even in his worst moments of fear and dread. His eyes were only on God. Anyway, in the book, Lisa mentions the name of her church. I realized it is in my area, and I always had it in my mind for years to come. Years later, it is my home church. Perhaps I would have found it without the book, without the senseless horror and tragefy of 9/!!,
but I dont know…the Beamers ' story was one of the first testimonies of loving Jesus that had ever really touched me. That it came tangled in a story of profound loss, that, to me, is God's causing all things to work for good.
Sending love and prayers to all the victims and their families,
Samantha
That is so cool that you attend their church. Do you know her? Has she moved? I googled her a few years ago to see what was going on in her life now…but little was out there. The Lord brings her to mind often and I pray for her and her children. Her husband will always be remembered as a hero by this family. xo
Linny,
I am not sure we thank you enough for sharing your thoughts and feelings and inviting us to do the same. Thank you for asking us to reflect on September 11th. To be honest, I tend to put it out of my mind for most of the year. When September rolls around, I get that sinking feeling again, knowing I will have to confront my emotions about that day. Eleven years ago, I was such a baby…ok, really a young woman but to even think about myself at that age takes my breath away. I do believe that September 11th burst my personal bubble…you know that one in which we are self focused and engrosed in our own little world. I have been a camp director for 12 years, so 11 years ago was just the beginning of that journey. On September 11th, 2001 our camp was hosting an affluent private school from the area for a week. I was scheduled to lead a caving trip that day with another staff member. During breakfast our head cook called me into the kitchen to watch the breaking news on tv. We weren't sure what to think in the beginning. Was this real? Was this serious? Watching it all unfold was unreal. Decisions had to be made. Do we let campers leave camp on their planned day trips? What do we do if the roads are shut down, if gas stations close? How do we tell the campers what is happening? Do we tell them? (After all, campers typically don't have access to tv, radio, etc). As a camp director, I feel I have always understood the responsibility of caring for someone else's most prized treasures, but this was so new, so big, so unplanned. My world was simply rocked. Was I ready for this? Am I capable of handling this, personally and professionally? For the first time, I really realized that the outside world was capable of affecting my personal little world. On top of all this, I was unsure as to whether my aunt of uncle were in either tower that day. They both worked and lived in NYC and typically had meetings in the towers (they were both fine, thanks to my aunt's meeting in the south tower being cancelled that morning). We made the best decisions we could that day, went on with our lives in as normal way as possible. Talked a lot with camp administration and school officials. After school officials confirmed that all campers' parents were accounted for (several communted weekly to NYC) we told the campers after dinner and did our best to answer their questions. How to do answer "why" when you don't have the answer yourself? The week went on, life went on. But I recall struggling personally, on my own time, when not around the campers. I finally realized how large the world really was, how much mattered beyond myself and my life has never been the same since. I find myself better prepared for the "what if's" in life. My personal journey to the Lord and my Saviour was strengthened. I understand that my experience with September 11th is so small compared to those who survived, who lost a loved one or those who tragically perished on that day. I was affected though. I grew up as a result. I just hope and pray that I am a better person, a better American and a better Christian as a result of that day. Thank you again for asking me to share. May we all use this day as a reminder to put our priorities in order, honor those who serve and remember those who sacrificed. B
Thank you for sharing your 9/11 day and thoughts with us. Truly, it has helped me to read all the comments. Because sometimes I think, "Am I the only one feeling this?" especially things like 9/11 and having such little spoken out in the media about it all. Bless you sweet friend.
Last month I had to get our heat pump worked on. The repairman said we'd got it on Sept 11, 1999. He made an emphasis on the date. Back then,we just thought of that day as just an ordinary day. Now it's different. Yes, 9.11.01 changed my life in ways of thinking. Of more support for our troops. For becoming a member of the PGR that attend funerals, send offs and welcome homes for our troops becuz of what happened after the fact of that day. I still wear a flag shirt and earrings to remember that day, like I did today. I saw a few others, customers mostly, that wore those colors, but not alot. Fire dept and police station had their flags had half mast. I think of it as our generation's "Pearl Harbor". I don't like having guidelines of what I can't take on the airplane because it is suspicious… Come on jam in my peanut butter sandwich? Taking my shoes off? Full body scans? I fear but then trusting in God makes me feel better. It's not a perfect world. Never will be. So we live on and thank those soldiers, policemen, firemen and others that get us through the bad days of 11 years ago. Lest we forget….Never forget. Some gave all! God is always there no matter what happens! Thanks for caring and sharing, Linny. Hugs!
I am thankful for your flag shirt, earrings and appreciation of the military, fire and police departments. And yes, some gave all, that's why I can't forget. xo
I think it changed America in the sense of feeling totally safe. We now realize that we can be attacked. It gave us a new appreciation for those in the armed forces, firefighters etc. For me personally it changed everything in the fact that after caring for my mother for eight years…I sat next to her and said "good-bye" as she took her last breath. I was numb inside on 9/11/2001..it was the next year that I sat glued to the T.V. as they replayed the events from 2001. I totally agree that it has been really quiet this year.
Oddly quiet. Almost eerily to me. Thankful for bloggy friends to share it with though. xo
9/11 did change my life. I was only 19 when it happened, a sort of newlywed (2 years married at that point 🙂 and it definitely shook me. I think about it fairly often. Not necessarily the day but the aftermath. The changes that we've seen and when I feel annoyance over a prolonged security measure, I quickly think, "But this is for our safety". I'm thankful for a God that never rests and is ever mindful of His people. We can trust Him.
Isn't it amazing that God never sleeps? How grateful I am, like you, for that fact!
It completely changed my view of the world. Prior to 9-11 I saw a world that was safe and secure. I was a child before 9-11, afterwards I saw the world much differently. My childhood naivety was gone. It certainly impacted my life. I think it is the reason why my then boyfriend decided to join the National Guard. If it weren't for 9-11 I would not have spent the 2nd year of my marriage alone raising a newborn while he was in Ir*q. For the first time in my life I started to truly believe I could see the day the resurrection happens BEFORE my time on earth is done. I also started to realize I could see the day our country is not so 'free' anymore. With our current leadership's stance on Isr*el I fear my grandchildren may see the day our Nation is no more. Yes, 9-11 certainly changed my life. It marked the ending of an era for our country. An era of security, of wealth, and safety. We will never be the same again. Even if we're oblivious to that truth.
Well spoken my friend. And I couldn't agree with you more about it all.
I was working for the Federal Aviation Authority Security office on 9/11… I had worked in aviation security for a year at that point. It changed the direction of my life… I drove on and my anger fueled my desire to protect… protect my family, my friends and my country.
Before 9/11, I was a very carefree person, I was a Biologist working for a few years in the governement to save for Medical School. Here I am today, working for Homeland Security (so thank you for including us in your list of thank yous)… it is a tireless job, that requires vigilence and determination… I just can't seem to let go of protecting people so I let go of my Medical School dream and became an adoptive mom.
I think the 9/11 events are partially why I am an adoptive parent… because at the end of the day it is about humanity, it is about the human race, about facing the dark and sinister on a daily basis and being able to find light and love within the world. I have found that light in my medical miracle son, my Bulgarian princess and my future Russian prince (home in just a couple weeks).
Thank YOU for remembering.
I pray often for Homeland Security – that they will have GOD"s wisdom in what could be planned against our country. One of our closest friends works for HS as well. Now I know 2. You will be in my prayers as the Lord brings you to mind.
Yes, it totally changed my life and I am always coming back to it even when it is not the exact date. My little guy was born years later on Sept 11 and it was around the morning attacks. It makes me honor the people who lost loved ones and risked their lives that day and continue to protect us. I noticed that people seem to not think or talk about it even on the date. I think last year it was a little more due to the 10 year thing. It makes me sad that it is not as important to some. I taught a class yesterday (I am a trainer) and I dedicated it to those that lost so much. Love your heart Linny! Don't you love how that cross was right there in the middle of all the destruction. The hope in the storm.
What a beautiful thing to have a son born on that day.
I thought about it a lot yesterday, but couldn't bring myself to talk about it on Facebook. My dad had planned a business trip then that would take him from our home in Missouri to one coast and then another. At the last minute, he changed the order of the coasts he would be visiting. That last minute change meant he wasn't on one of the flights that made the news that day. Instead, he was stuck in California, trying to figure out a way to get home to us. Even as I type this, my heart is in my throat as I think about God's providence in my dad's life that week. And even now, I have to remind myself that my dad's life is in God's hands when I'm tempted to hold onto him or other loved ones too tightly.
Wow. Only God would orchestrate your dad's change of plans. We had a friend who had a job interview in one of the towers. He had flown in for it. And the LOrd told him to change the interview. He called and made it a day later. Otherwise he would have been in the tower at his interview. Powerful reminders that the Lord knows our number of days.
We lived in the DC area on 9/11. My office was at 1200 Pennsylvania Ave (at the Mall, 4 blocks from the White House, in view of the Capitol). My husband was in the same office complex. We were married 3 months before.
At some point in the morning, I called a colleague, and he told me a plane had crashed into the WTC. He was a financial analyst and knew many people in the WTC. I knew some too. We talked briefly, but soon word came in from all over about the plane crash. I assumed it was an accident, but others didn't think so. We turned on a tv, and saw the second plane hit. I felt a huge lump in my stomach, like impending doom, or the feeling you get when you are going to be in a big car accident and there is nothing you can do to stop it. You just brace for impact. I thought I would vomit, but it was something like shock too. Then we heard about the Pentagon. We ran over to the other side of the building, and saw the smoke. I knew people that worked there. My uncle's office was practically just across the highway from the Pentagon too.
I called my husband. They didn't know any more than we did, but they were told to go home. Soon we were told that another plan was heading to DC, to the White House, and we were to evacuate. The White House is not huge, and is surrounded by trees, so part of me thought I personally could be hit any minute because of our close proximity.
I was afraid (for myself, my husband, my uncle, my country), and yet I was also completely calm. I just prayed, and didn't stop until I was home, maybe an hour or so later. We lived in Virginia, and had to take the metro home, which travels under the Potomac River. I wondered if this was even safe, but just wanted to get out of DC.
We prayed much of the rest of the day. On the one hand, I knew that things would never be the same in the States again. I didn't know what was in store, but I definitely knew that things would be way different. I knew there were people out there that don't like our country, but I was just in disbelief at this level of hate. I felt vulnerable in the face of that intensity of evil. Would this be the end of my life? of my husband's? my uncle's? other people that I knew or friends of friends or family members of friends?
Yet at the same time, I knew that even though the attacks took our country by surprise, they did not take God by surprise. I knew God was with us. I was afraid, but not rudderless.
Later, when more of the story came out, especially all the amazing stories of heroism, the verses that came to my mind were "My ways are not your ways," and "when sin abounds, grace abounds all the more, and several verses about God's glory.
You asked did it change my life? Yes. My husband and I moved from DC about a year later. We had talked about eventually moving back to St. Louis in a few years (which is where I am from, and most of my family lives here, and my husband's family is close too), but I think the attacks moved up our timetable. I really wanted to be closer to family. Another change was that I realized to a greater degree that I am not in control of all that affects me. I knew that to a large extent already, but this was so major and came with no warning. It made me feel smaller. The attacks helped me turn more over to God, things that I didn't understand or didn't know anything about. I felt more like a child. I wondered then about all sorts of things that God has kept me away from, to protect me, that I didn't know anything about. I also prayed more for people I know nothing about. I did this already, but it was now with a greater sense of responsibility and urgency. So, to put that all together, I guess the attacks made me feel smaller, more like a child, yet also with my eyes more open to those around me, and definitely more rooted as being a child of God and relying on Him to get through everything.
What a great story…thank you for taking the time to share it. You were sooo close to it all in so many ways. Bless you, my friend.
Linny, it changed my life. I agree, no one seemed to speak too much about it. It did not even make the newspaper this year. It is almost viewed as an anniversary that isn't "the special year." Disheartening to say the lease. When September 11, 2001 happened, I was rewinding a video movie for my two year old and had The TV on when I saw planes crash into the towers. I really did not compute what was happening and thought it was a part from a movie. Off, we went to the mall where all the stores were closing and I asked why and that is when I knew. My one son was 7 years old. He drew pictures of the planes crashing into the towers (He did not see any pictures of this at home or view it on TV at home because we were so careful). He must have seen it at school. His teacher felt he might be a terrorist and was very concerned. I thought he might just be a 7 year old who was trying to sort it all out in his mind. Today, he is in his fourth week of basic training for the Marines. Ever since 9/11, he has wanted to be a Marine. While I support this and am proud of him, I cannot help but blame his choice on the terrorism that occurred on 9/11. I am sure there are other parents who can say the same thing. 9/11 means something to me.
Thank your son for his service to our country. We are so grateful to know so many other military families.
I think we should remember. I do watch the historical replay on Tv every year. I don't want to forget…it was horrible; yet heartwarming to see so many stories of the selfless men and women who helped other ppl through that day and the days that followed.
I don't really think about it much thruout the yr…but I am aware of the date 9/11 approaching each yr. Has it changed my daily life? No, I don't think it has, much. Some. I do realize others' lives were changed forever…and I'm sad for them and angry on their behalf.
I love the stories of the selfless people as well. Such heroes!
Dear Linny ~ I too, think about it often, very often. It changed my heart and gave me a new awareness of how great the United States of America really is. On many days, I find myself thanking God for allowing me to be born in the U.S.. Now, I'm gonna be honest here… I had never heard of the Twin Towers (or if I ad, I didn't remember it!). I've never been to the Eastern parts of the U.S.. My younger sister woke me up that awful morning, calling me to tell me. Huh? Twin Towers? What are you talking about? And, then I turned the TV on! I turned it on right after the first plane hit. So, I was watching Live when the 2nd plane hit. I sobbed and cried and begged God to be there with everyone in those buildings and on the ground. I never left the TV that day. I didn't eat or drink anything. I just prayed and cried out to our Creator. I was SO sad for the loss. What a LOSS! But, deep within, I had a peace. I KNOW He was right there in the midst of the fire and destruction.
Like you, my Sister and Friend, I do think about that day. And, I am so thankful for each man and woman that Made A Choice, a huge CHOICE, to go over to I & A to fight for our Country. To give their Everything, to protect ME. Me and You and every other person who has been blessed to call the USA, Home.
Life is all about making a Choice. We each must choose to do what is right. It is not always easy and often, we make the wrong choice. But, The Wonder of Wonders, is that we have a Father who Loves and Forgives us when we confess those things to Him!
Last year, on the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I wrote a poem about that day. It is on my blog, but, I'll share it with you here.
I LIKE TO THINK THAT ON THIS DAY
IT WAS TEN YEARS AGO
OUR FATHER GOD, WORKED OVERTIME
SENDING ANGELS TO GATHER SOULS
EACH ANGEL CAME BEFORE HIS THRONE
TO KNEEL DOWN AT HIS FEET
HE SPOKE A NAME AND SENT THEM FORTH
A PERSON EACH TO MEET
THAT ANGEL WAS TO LIFT THEM
BEFORE THAT FINAL BLOW
EACH SOUL WOULD LEAVE THE BODY
NO PAIN OR FEAR THEY'D KNOW
THE CLOUDS THAT BILLOWED UP ABOVE
THE BROKEN GROUND BELOW
WERE REALLY WINGS OF ANGELS
SENT TO GATHER SOULS
I love you! ~ Jo
I love poetry…thank you Jo for sharing yours. You are such a blessing to all who know you!
Big time! For quite some time after it happened I had dreams about it all happening in my hometown. I always looked up. I didnt get on a plane until this summer 😉
Until that day wars and terrorism was something that happened on the news from faraway places and in books, but not in real life. America was too strong to allow anyone to do that. And who would want to do that here anyhow? To a country that supports countries in need? To a country that gives opportunities to every man woman and child? The false sense of security was erased and I now live knowing that things like that can happen at any time to anyone anywhere.
Thank the LORD I am not living in fear anymore. But it is always some there poking around in my head.
So thankful you are not living in fear anymore!! Yippee Jesus!
Yes! It did change my life! I think about it about once a month. My Daughter was on Ellis Island on an historical tour she told a friend to take a picture of her sitting on a ledge with the towers in the background. 3 months later 9-11 happened. I was at work at my job at an secure living center when The Price is Right was interrupted by the news cast of the 9-11 events. I love my country too! I join with you in your tribute! GOD BLESS AMERICA! Janet
God bless America is right!
It forever changed my life. Little would I know that eleven years later I would be married to a man in the air force.
My faith was shaken and my reality was uprooted. As time marches forward it startles me that this is becoming more and more of memory. I was fourteen when it happened and I will never forget that feeling of deep sadness and grief that I felt that day. And the unity that was felt in the months following the attacks. God is more present in my life than he was eleven years ago. XO Andrea
Please thank your husband for his service {and you too!}.