I know a lot of bloggers had a lot to say about the 10th anniversary of 9/11 today.
I don't have many words tonight.
Except that "anniversary" doesn't seem fitting. I mean, this isn't something we're celebrating. Remembering, yes. Mourning, yes. Commemorating, yes. Celebrating? Absolutely not.
There's no celebration, and I don't think there should even be any moving on. If we move on, that takes us farther from the feelings we had that day: anger, sadness, willingness to fight.
I think that, as Americans, we should always keep those feelings close to our heart, or else we risk losing our pride.
I really don't want to get all preach-ey about this, because I've spent the day in quiet reflection and silent prayers for those lives lost, their families, and for our nation. But, I guess this topic is closer to my heart than I will allow myself to remember, because suddenly I have many, many feelings about that day, and about our country and those who fight to defend it.
If it weren't for the events of 9/11, I really don't know how differently my life would have played out. Would Scott have joined the Army at all?! The Army took him thousands of miles away, trained him how to be a soldier, and exposed him to things he won't easily forget. I actually don't know why Scott decided to join the Army after high school graduation in 2002, and I'll be darned if I could get him to tell me why. But I do think that 9/11 was a part of his decision. Little did he know that his life would be forever changed. And while I wasn't around for his entire career as a soldier, I can tell you that he served honorably and diligently.
Today of all days was Scott's very last day serving this country as a soldier. I can't believe I'm actually tearing up as I type this, but this chapter in his life our lives is closed.
It changes a lot of things for us, and while this is a little bit scary, it's also a huge relief. Scott served for nine years including active duty and reserves, and spent many, many months deployed overseas. I'm relieved to have him home for good, and also very proud of his service.
He doesn't even think it's a big deal, but I know it is.
My heart is proud tonight, knowing that he finished the noble path that he started nine years ago. Whether Scott joined the Army to support his country after those cruel attacks, or he was just a wayward high school graduate looking for direction is a moot point.
I want to take this moment to thank all of our soldiers and service men and women. It's not an easy job, and the monetary compensation will never be enough for the way that they defend our country with their lives. But, we thank them in hopes that it will keep them strong. If you know a soldier, police officer, fire-fighter, or other keeper-of-our-country's-peace, please say a little prayer for them tonight, and for those who have lost a loved one on 9/11 or in the aftermath.
I will sleep soundly tonight, but only because of the sacrifice of others.
It's the end of an era for my little family, and just the beginning on the road back to
freedom and safety for America.
God Bless the USA.
2 comments:
beautiful post!
Beautifully written. I'm so thankful to the brave men and women who have served in the past (like my husband and yours) and those who continue to serve today.
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