The unity of Sept. 11 has faded after 17 years
Seventeen years ago, on Sept. 11, 2001, one of the worst tragedies in our history took place. The tragedy would shake this country to the core. It also woke us up from the complacency we often find ourselves in.
For the first time in many years, we faced the reality that the gap between life and death is merely a single breath. It is here one minute and gone the next. Whether by natural causes or some tragic event, everyone will one day take their one last breath.
When the event took place, it was a reminder to believers that God doesn’t hold our country ahead of all the others. We are one cog in the wheel we call earth. God made it all. His love extends far beyond our borders. It is a love that encompasses the entire planet.
Soon after the reality of what happened sank in, our nation mourned together. We prayed in unison. The divisions we see so often today seemed to have disappeared. We were one nation. The loss of life from that day turned us all into one thing. Americans.
Without one airplane flying in our airspace, many events being canceled, it appeared as if the world stopped turning, even if only for a day. Conversations weren’t about finances and material things. At least for a day or so. We talked about God and family. Prayers were continuous by people from every walk of life. It was as close to a nationwide revival as I can remember.
On a more personal note, the reality of that day caused me to hit the pause button in my own life. I can only speak for myself although you may be able to relate. All of a sudden, I wanted to be a better father, a better son, a better husband and a better Christian. In essence, I just wanted to be a better man.
After doing everything we could do to ensure the safety of the citizens of this county under the leadership of Sheriff Roger Garrison, he and I sat and talked. We decided to go get our children, Lindsey and Wes. We took them to the golf course in Jasper a little before sunset. It wasn’t about golf. It was about showing our children that life continues, even in the face of tragedy. It was about showing them that love conquers fear.
Someone actually had the audacity to question our whereabouts on the night of the 11th. It didn’t matter that we had worked all day with every agency in the county devising and implementing a plan. This person obviously had different standards as it applies to family. When you have done all you can for others, it would be unethical and immoral to forget your own children and their fears. As for me, I’ve never questioned my actions on that day.
It has been a long time since that dreadful and historic tragedy occurred on American soil. We are about as far from a nationwide revival as we have ever been. So much hate as developed in 17 years it’s scary. The memory of that day seems to be fading. Things have changed dramatically, and not for the better.
We have developed into a society that is offended by anything and everything. Therefore, we must tiptoe around the whiners to ensure we don’t hurt their feelings. Most people I know are sick of it. Many of us want to tell them to grow up and get over themselves. That isn’t going to happen. We will continue to coddle everyone who gets their feelings hurt in order to keep the peace that society dictates we keep.
A theme has developed. If it offends someone, we don’t do it. Even if it means offending God and His believers. It appears to me that the only group that has no recourse if they are offended is Christians.
Seventeen years ago, our country was brought to its knees. With time, many rose from their knees while forgetting how quickly things can change. We will again one day hit our knees in unison. The question is, will we do it on our own, or will we wait until another tragedy strikes us? Because, tragedy will strike. It’s not if, it’s when.
Not everyone agrees with my point of view and I respect that. Regardless of your point of view, my belief that God is still in control will never waiver. Amen!