When the tragedy of 9/11 devastated our nation, I was a new mother, wife of a fire fighter, daughter of a state police officer, niece of a naval officer who worked in the Pentagon, and sister to a former member of the United States Coast Guard. To say that it hit a little too close to home was an understatement. My baby girl slept peacefully while the Twin Towers fell, the Pentagon ravaged, and the passengers of Flight 93 fought bravely and crashed. I hit my knees and prayed that she would never have to endure such sorrow.
Today is my cousin's birthday, and on 9/11/01 she said: "It won't be just my birthday anymore, it is the day when patriotism was awakened." I choose to remember it that way too.
Should it be a national holiday? Yes.
For many reasons:
1. To honor those that died that day. Some who went to work thinking it was just "another day at the office," but now are at peace. But more for the ones that were left behind, to mourn their loved ones, whom they will never touch or kiss goodnight again.
2. For the babies that are growing up with out one or both parents. For those who lost brothers, sisters, husbands, wives, aunts, uncles, and other family or friends.
3. For those who have fought and died for our freedom whether it was 200 years ago or today, especially those who fought and continue to fight to bring justice to a grieving nation. I thank you for all that you do from our backyard, to our borders, to overseas. I solute you. I will always support and defend the actions of our troops. They are warriors, soldiers, and fight for our freedom because their heart tells them too. Not because they simply are taking orders.
4. For Americans to rest and remember all that we have to be thankful for, and that we've yet one more day of freedom.
I'm sure I could think of more reasons, but those I've listed should be more than sufficient. As a woman who has lost her brother and her father, I can truly say my heart breaks for every one of you who has ever lost a loved one. And as Americans, we should NEVER FORGET! EVER!
~Heather
www.heathercalaway.com
