Thursday, September 11, 2008

The eleventh of never

Seven years later
I still cannot live today
Like every other.

I have a hard time knowing how to be today. It feels wrong to ignore the anniversary, but I don't know how to observe it meaningfully either. I've always found it odd that other cities around the country (including the small town that neighbors Mayberry) have 9/11 ceremonies and memorials. I guess everyone felt their country was under attack that day. But even though I was there that day, I didn't lose anyone close to me, so any remembrance, anything I could offer, feels false and disconnected, like those memorial observances hundreds of miles away.

Instead, today I'll choose to be grateful.

For the doctors and nurses who healed our daughter this summer, and for the insurance that paid for all but $500 of the nearly $100,000 cost.

For the men and women who teach and care for my children every day, who help them learn and grow.

For the sturdy old house that shelters my family and me.

For my own health and that of my husband and children and parents and siblings and mother-in-law and grandmother-in-law.

For my work and the colleagues with whom I share it.

For my friends online and off.

And I pray that those who don't have these blessings may one day know them.

13 comments:

Katie Kermeen Swisher said...

I think this is a great way to honor the victims and remember that day. Thanks for your post...

Alex Elliot said...

I also agree that this is a great post. I didn't realize that you were there on 911.

Unknown said...

great post, and i echo many of your feelings.

Magpie said...

Grateful is good.

Heather said...

Peace to you, friend.

Anonymous said...

You've said a mouthful...and a heartful today.

Damselfly said...

What beautiful thoughts. And like Katie said, a great way to honor the victims of 9/11.

Kimberly said...

It's important to be grateful and its befitting to do it today. Great post.

Lady M said...

So cliche, but there's really nothing like health (and health insurance) - we will testify to that too. Blessings to all.

Patois42 said...

Amen to the path you chose to honor and remember.

Lisa said...

This is a beatiful post. You gave me goosebumps.

Am off to click on the other post you mentioned...

Kate said...

Powerful, yet subtle post. We appreciate you, too Mayberry :)

the mama bird diaries said...

I think gratitude is an excellent way to honor those who lost their lives.