Friday; September 10

This weekend, the United States will be marking the 20th Anniversary of the attacks of September 11. There are several things that make this event significant: the fact that it was a foreign attack on U. S. soil, using commercial airplanes as flying bombs, the shear magnitude of destruction and death. Yet, there is something else that stands out to me – heroism. As soon as the first plane flew into the World Trade Center, plans were being made to respond – not just from the military, but by common folks. Some people ran into the falling buildings … some packed up food and provisions to be taken to those impacted … some scheduled trips to the effected cities to ease the burdens of the victims and first responders. People gave blood, money, clothing and whatever else they had to help Americans they didn’t even know. Some heroes would have their pictures shown around the world, while others would have their names etched in a wall – but there were many more who remain anonymous. They may not be famous, but they are just as remarkable. As I look back on that day, it is the heroes that shine brightest to me. I doubt that many planned on being heroes, but their nature just shone through. President George H. W. Bush had called them “thousands of points of light” and when all those lights come together, the brightness cannot be ignored.

You know, I wonder if something similar happened today – if something traumatic occurred – would people step up? Interestingly, I believe they would because our world is filled with heroes. They may not be flashy or famous, but they are out there. It is easy for victims to get attention, but common everyday heroes must not be ignored. Let’s learn to recognize our heroes – not just on September 11, but every day. When we see them in action and when we say “thank you” we pay tribute, not just to them, but to all the heroes who have gone before them.

Think About It!

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