9 years ago today................

I'm sure we all remember where we were. I was at work when I heard the news. I'm ashamed to admit that I didn't quite grasp the significance when a co-worker informed me that a plane crashed into one of the towers. I assumed she meant one of those small, crop-duster types and my thought was "what was the plane doing flying in the city in the first place?"

Then I realized the gravity of the situation. I was shocked. I was horrified. And the situation grew worse. And worse. And then I was outraged. How dare ANYONE threaten us on our own soil! And I remember how the country as a whole pulled together. I was never a Bush fan but during that time, I was impressed. I admired his response. Not surprising - at that point in time we weren't Democrats or Republicans. We were Americans. I thank God that I didn't lose anyone on that day but I did lose something. Something I believe we all lost - our sense of security. It did open my eyes. I also lost my sense of entitlement.

I offer up a prayer to our Lord for the families left behind - that they find the comfort and love that only God can provide. I pray for those who are fighting for our security in those parts of the world far from here. And I pray for those who provide our security right here at home. I pray for all of us - of all beliefs, nationalities and cultures - that we learn to love one another despite our differences and I pray that we are always thankful for the blessings we are given.

Amen.

Paying my Respects....

Today is Memorial Day. For me, it's not just about parades, picnics and a day off. I was a proud member of the United States Army and my husband, the Air Force. I was unable to complete my time in the Army because of medical reasons but I felt I still had an obligation. Some time later, I became a member of a USO (United Servicemen's Organization) Performance Troupe called the Liberty Misses. We traveled stateside and overseas, performing for our veterans and active military. I've been to Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Korea, and the Azores. I was lucky enough, as a civilian, to witness the sacrifices made for us on a daily basis. I was unfortunate enough to attend the memorial service for a fallen Marine in the middle of the desert in Kuwait.

America, as a whole, has plenty of issues. I don't think we're ever going to get everything right. But we have men and women who willingly put themselves on the line on a daily basis for the benefit of everyone in this country - even those who would spit in their face. It's an awesome and humbling concept. And today we also honor the men and women on the police force, fire deparment and emergency services. No one has forced any of these individuals to play the roles that they do. So I give them all the honor and respect that they deserve and then some.

Happy Memorial Day to all those who serve and have served, in any capacity.