9/11... A time to remember yet there are reasons to celebrate

Like most of you, I remember exactly where I was on 9/11. I was at the Fulton YMCA walking on the treadmill when programming was interrupted. Within seconds each television was airing live footage with the various commentators thoughts echoing the clips replaying. Silence...not a treadmill, bicycle or weight is lifted. The only sound are muffled sobs and those running to grab their cell phones from their lockers. As if this wasn't enough, there is a second hit and then the towers fall. No one finished their work out...the gym slowly emptied leaving the replays to echo in the emptiness.

This evening we will join our community for a walk of remembrance down Route 104 in the town of New Haven, New York. At 7 p.m. we will walk from the elementary school to the fire hall with illuminaries lighting our way. I'm blessed by our community and look forward to coming together as we remember.

The horror, pain, and loss are immeasurable. The grief, healing, and prayers are numerous. Yet there are reasons to celebrate on today, while thousands lost their lives - there are thousands across the country celebrating their births today. There are children born each year on 9/11, one of my best friends celebrates her birth today, and others might have a monumental joy in their life on this day.

I mourn the lives and monuments lost. I grieve the scars of fear and apprehension left behind. I pray for peace, strength, safety, and unity for our country in the years to come. As I walk tonight, tears will come.

While it may be difficult to see the positive and hope on a day like today - remember today is someone's birthday, anniversary, or special day.

I pray we, as a country will remember the lost while celebrating the living. There is hope...

"No person was ever honored for what he received.
Honor has been the reward for what he gave."
- Calvin Coolidge, American President

Then young women will dance and be glad,
young men and old as well.
I will turn their mourning into gladness;
I will give them comfort
and joy instead of sorrow.
Jeremiah 31:13 NIV

May we remember, reflect, and look for a reason to rejoice!