22 Years On
Greetings everyone, today’s entry will a little bit of a change of pace. I often write a reflection on the anniversary of the 9/11 event or at least talk to my students about the memories that have been captured in my mind. It is hard to believe that this tragic event in history took place some 22 years ago now, I still feel like I can so vividly recall many of the details about that moment when I first found out. Today’s reflection on 9/11 will be somewhat different than many I’ve written or stated in the past.
After walking into the school building I commented with a colleague about today’s significance and she actively recalled where she was during the event also. She ended her story with a comment that I have heard before, but it never really hit me before like it did this morning. My colleague mentioned that our students were not even born and many of them do not have any personal connection to 9/11. Many of them did not even know the reason why Al-Qaeda choose today’s date. While this has been true for some time, I have noticed that many no longer reflect on what was lost today 22 years ago.
The lives that were lost, whether it was fathers/ mothers/ sons/ daughters/ loved ones/ friends… It was surreal to listen to those names of those who lost their lives on the news covering today’s anniversary commemorations.
Not only were those lives lost, but a way of life was lost that day. The world in many ways has changed so much that it is barely recognisable.
But the biggest thought that has been lingering with me all day was the fact that I have two students whose birthdays were today. One student who turned 17 and another who turned 18. It might sound silly or even strange to even point this out, but it has stuck with me today how one day can differ for so many people, depending on circumstance, perspective, environment. The only significant difference is time. This day serves as a dark memory for many forever etched in time, but for two, it was a day of new beginnings, of life.
“6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.”
Romans 5:6 ESV
Despite whatever days we may have had in the past or will have in the future, Christ will remain with us. There may be times where it seems dark and He is not present, but when we least suspect it, He is there. Whether it is to comfort us, restore us, beautifully orchestrate all the necessary pieces behind the scenes to help us out of those low points in life, or even to welcome us home in unity with Him, there He is. These themes have been on my mind today and perhaps they aren’t even articulated well, but I just wanted to share. God bless…
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