For people of my generation we will always remember where we were and how we felt when we first learned of JFK’s assasination.
For many who live today, we will always remember where we were and how we felt when the Twin Towers were taken down. 
The actual act of terror creates horror, pain, and rage. But the terror itself comes from the wondering what will happen next.
Suzy and I lived in DC at the time. I remember so much the emotions of the moment, the day, and the days that followed. I’m sure you do as well. I remember most an overwhelming desire to get Suzy home from work and to be close to her. I also remember our wonderful neighbors knocking on our door at five in the afternoon with pitcher of martinis saying, “no one should be alone tonight.” A wonderful and life long friendship began that day.
It was that need for companionship and love that overrode any other emotion of the day including fear. I could live with whatever would come next, as long as I could be with Suzy and my neighbors.
People ask me what was the most difficult part of my sabbatical. Without a doubt it was the separation from family and friends.
Oftentimes, what appears to be tragedy often is the seed of divine triumph. On this anniversary of 9/11 it is good remember what is most important in your life, and how to make tragedy in whatever form it takes including an act of terror or a hurricane the “seed of divine triumph.”
Leave a Reply +