september 11, 2001

Twin Towers, Pentagon, PA, Afghanistan, Iraq

december 7, 1941

Pearl Harbor, WWII

I am a selfish person.  I cannot fathom the dedication of firefighters and police officers the world over who give so much of their time, energy and lives.  I cannot fathom walking into war.  Since 2001, so many have died – and for what?  I hope it is for honor, for the love of humanity.  Over 3000 people died in the Twin Towers, Pentagon and Pennsylvania crashes – they represented 90 countries.  First responders ran into the Towers not knowing the horrific extent of the damage and anger unleashed; what they knew was people needed help – and they dedicated their lives to giving it.  Oh, I know no one is perfect, I know there is corruption, I know of scandal and of abuse of power – but not that day nor in the days to follow.  Our country is arrogant – we believe we have the best system for living in the world – we try to share it with others who have differing priorities, differing values.   We often dis-respect their choices.  I hope we do not bomb them; I hope we never take innocent lives purposefully.   Our world of instant communication leaves little time for reflection, for contemplation of outcomes, of saying “no” to a soundbite which may come back to bite.

This is the first and most important commandment – love the Lord your God with all your soul, with all your heart and with all you strength; and the second is like unto it: love your neighbor as yourself.  We are to love those who hate us.  We are to forgive those who harm us.  We are to live in love as Christ loved us.  Those men, women and dogs who sought to save 10 years ago acted in love, compassion and commitment as well as those who serve in the subsequent wars.  We can do no less.

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