Friday, September 11, 2009

What I'll Teach My Children About September 11th

September 11, 2001 changed every American’s life. It touched everyone in a different way and has caused a shift in thinking for most of us. I’d love to hear how it has changed your life. As a parent, I do more than just hold my children a little bit closer at night, give them extra kisses to be sure they know how much I love them. My children are still so young I hope they will never understand or experience what us as their parents experienced that day.



For weeks, there was no way to argue that life had changed here in South Orange County. People were different. I saw a different side of people, one rarely seen. Everyone’s thoughts were with the brave First Responders who helped to pick up the pieces of the World Trade Center and it showed. I saw more polite drivers on the road, people less rushed and more courteous. I saw people aimlessly wandering the stores almost unsure what to do. I saw neighbors for the first time standing out in front of their homes, truly taking the time to learn about each other and finding common ground. The skies were quiet with the occasional roar of a fighter jet above as a painful reminder of why no planes were flying. Yes America had changed in just an instant.


Slowly over the next few weeks life went back to the way it was at least visibly. Planes flew, road rage was back and people were again appearing to only focus on themselves. But now I know that Americans will drop everything in a time of need and take care of each other. I’m proud of that.


And how will I be remembering the lives lost on September 11th, 2001? I’ll be an extra courteous driver again, give a few extra warm smiles to strangers, participate in a couple random acts of kindness and look to find a way to give back to my community today. This is what I’ll teach my children that September 11th is all about. How about you?

4 comments:

JLC September 11, 2009 at 10:09 AM  

I was getting ready to teach a class when I turned on the television and saw one of the buildings collapse. My heart froze. Since the children weren't entirely sure what was going on, we had to act natural in class, but once we had a moment or a break, we would rush into the staff lounge and watch the news.

For my children... they will learn that acts of peace are more powerful than retribution.

Tamara in CA,  September 13, 2009 at 2:01 PM  

I was actually just getting to bed after staying up all night with a sick child when I saw the events unfolding on TV in the very early morning. I was exhaustd but could not go to sleep due to teh shock of it all and was glued to the TV in disbelief, calling family and friends.

The lesson I try to covery about September 11th is appreciation - how we all must appreciate our family, friends and blessing each and every moment we are lucky enough to have them.

Tamara in CA,  September 13, 2009 at 2:01 PM  

PS - Pardon the type-os!

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