Reflections.

It's hard to believe it's been 7 years since the September 11th attacks. I remember that day so precisely. I remember being woken up by Nick (my big little brother) shouting at the TV, "They hit another tower!!" The rest of the day was spent glued to live broadcasts of msnbc online while working at Modesto Junior College. I remember answering the endless phone calls, "Classes are still in session, thank you for calling Modesto Junior College". 90% of the calls questioned if campus was still open. It seemed odd that the university systems were all closed but community colleges remained open. I remember the eerie feeling that day... and for the days to come. I remember the strangeness of not seeing or hearing even one airplane fly in the sky after flights nationwide were grounded. I remember sitting in front of my parents house in total disbelief of what had occured earlier in the day... that thousands of people lost their lives, hundreds were missing and God only knew how many were injured physically and psychologically. Millions of people were affected and are affected.

A day that started so typical - ended so dramatically devastating and different for nearly every person in our nation. Even those who were not directly affected by either knowing a person who perished, or was injured, a firefigher, rescue worker at ground zero, etc... we were all left shooken and disillusioned. I know that I look at life different and I honor the 9/11 heroes. I know that I'll never forget.

As I looked for September 11th images I came across this. It literally gave me some of the most intense chills I've EVER had. This puts September 11th into perspective. This picture bothers me beyond belief! As it should. Gods word says to break our hearts for what breaks the heart of God. THIS image breaks the heart of God - and it breaks mine as well.

Lets push our feelings, politics, and skepticism aside today and honor and pray for those affected by 9/11. Personally, I'd like to thank our military - past and present, for protecting us and fighting for our freedom that so many of us take for granted. Thank you to every airman, soldier, marine and sailor for serving our country. I especially want to thank one favorite airman in particular, Scott Michael Holmes, my baby brother who serves in the United States Air Force. I love you Scotty!! You will always have my full support... and I admire you more than you know.

SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 - Let us never forget.