Thursday, September 11, 2014

A Remembrance of September 11th

Anyone over the age of 18 most likely remembers September 11th, 2001. Whenever I think of it, my eyes sting with tears a little. Like anyone else, I can instantly go back to that day in my mind. My heart still goes out to the thousands upon thousands of people forever changed by that horrible day.

The very next day, Wednesday, September 12th, I found out I was pregnant with my second child, my lovely daughter. With all of the chaos and uncertainty of America's status, I continually poured out my heart to our Heavenly Father. You see, when I found out I was pregnant, it had only been a little over 24 hours since the awful terrorist tragedy happened to America.

On one hand, I was so excited about Greg and I having another baby! YAY! There is truly nothing as wonderful as a baby being born into a loving family—the beautiful product of a happy marriage! On the other hand, I was so scared of what the future held for America. I was truly terrified that there were terrorists in other places that we didn't know about yet. It was such an awful feeling. I remember thinking, "What have Greg and I done, bringing another child into this wicked world? What if there is nothing but evil, madness, tragedy, and sadness from here on out?" Some of you might think that's way too extreme of a reaction to have, but there were no real answers 24+ hours into our ordeal, and America's citizens were all in shock.

Thankfully, I received my answer very quickly through the Holy Ghost that my daughter was indeed supposed to gain a body through me and be born. Even though none of us had real answers about what was going on with America, I knew everything would be okay for my little family. I knew our Savior would make it right. It was such a peaceful yet sad feeling. I've never forgotten it and I never will.

Even though 9/11, is far behind us, I think it's vitally important that we take time to learn from those who experienced it personally. There are many beautiful life lessons we can learn from others. We must not forget those who died for America!

Thus, I must share this amazing interview produced by the Mormon Channel. I randomly listened Kenneth and Jeanette Howell's story, Episode 32, on Conversations, this past Monday morning. But nothing is ever random, is it? :) I know everything happens for a reason, and my timing of listening to their story couldn't have been better!

Here's the Mormon Channel's description of the interview: Kenneth and Jeanette Howell are the parents of Brady Howell, who was killed when a plane crashed into the Pentagon on 9/11. Through this and the lesser tragedy of losing a home in the 1976 Teton Dam disaster, the Howells have valuable advice to offer on coping with adversity and keeping families close.

The Howells' story is filled with love, optimism, inspiration, and faith. I wish everyone would listen to their wise words! They are an amazing couple.

Lastly, what I remember most about 9/11, is the way Americans pulled together. The strength of America's communities was a wonderful sight to behold. We, as neighbors and friends, became family who would do anything for each other. We looked out for each other's well being. We supported each other with good deeds, hugs, and kind words.

I truly wish we could go back to those early days, post 9/11, when caring and sharing dominated our society. I would take that love over the unkind things we see in real life—but especially on social media—in a heartbeat! My fellow citizens of America, we must do better! No, I'm not trying to sound presidential. ;)  It's just how I feel! We must not be so antagonistic toward those with differing points of views than ours!

Okay, I'll stop before my words get out of control. Just know that my heart broke on 9/11, for I love America and her people with my whole heart and soul! Let's remember those beautiful souls we lost. Let's do better, and be better—not just for them, but for our remaining families, friends and neighbors. We have so much to give to each other!

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