Seven years ago (to the exact hour), I sent myself the following email:
I’m writing myself on this most historic day so that I may have documented feelings of the horror of that our great country experienced today. I woke up today (9-11-01) at around 10:00 am. I had previous plans of going to the hospital to talk to Ann Allen about a job. Mom Bea called me shortly after I awakened and told me that the U.S. was under attack. At this time, I turned on the television and watched with the world as the horrible events unfolded. I learned that 4 commercial airplanes had been hijacked by terrorists. The World Trade Center in New York City was the first to be attacked. Two different planes hit each tower of the World Trade Center causing each tower to eventually collapse. A third plan crashed into the Pentagon in Washington D.C. A fourth plan crashed just outside Pittsburgh. We do not know yet who is behind these acts but at this time the U.S. is expecting the work of Osama bin Laden. Thousands upon thousand are expected dead in this horrible tragedy. At this time rescue crews are hard at work trying to find survivors. For me personally, my thoughts and constant prayers go out to the families and our entire country. The only true source for peace is through our God. I lift this up to Him at this time. The Nation is urged to turn to God by President Bush. I have been glued to the TV all day. I went to Mom Bea’s house after lunch to watch the tragedy unfold with her. I came home around 5:00 pm and watched with my family. Mom went to a prayer meeting at our church. Like Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, this is another day that will live in infamy. So many stories of sadness and heroism are being reported constantly. I just wanted a written report of what I was thinking on this day. May God be with this nation in our time of need.
Calendar dates trigger different thoughts, memories, or emotions. January 7th reminds me of my love for my wife. March 22nd reminds me of past birthday parties. July 4th reminds me of Independence and Fireworks. December 25th reminds me of the birth of my Savior. September 11th will always trigger thoughts of uncertainty, tragedy, sorrow, anger, and intense patriotism.
God Bless the United States of America!
