Today is another day in the week. The sky is blue, the air is fresh and the sun gleams against the glass. 11 years ago the same was true. But the days that followed 9/11 were extraordinary. We were reminded of the hate in the world. Our vulnerability was exposed as a nation, as communities and as family members. We questioned certain races and religions, certain cultures and beliefs. But we also were reminded of the kindness and compassion that exists between strangers. We witnessed resilience and courage. We focused on caring for each other and being respectful of one another. We reaffirmed our love for those in our lives who mattered most and nurtured the bonds that needed mending. That ordinary day became extraordinary by an outside force, out of our control. But my hope is that as we move on, fill hearts and heal grief, we make each day as powerful as those that brought us together after that horrific day. We have the power to make each day extraordinary. By doing so, we honor those whose lives were lost, those who worked tirelessly to find hope, and those who continue to fight to keep this country safe. United we stand, together we strive, and forever we remember.
