Remembering

Today is September 11th and a time to remember when terrorists attacked Americans on US soil. Like most other people, I can remember where I was when I heard about two planes hitting the World Trade Center towers. I was at our house in Gilbert when Ron called me from Walgreens at Higley and Southern. He told me to turn on the tv. It was one of the most unreal things that I have ever seen. It was amazing to see black smoke pouring from the tops of the towers. An overhead of New York showed smoke traveling far to the east above Long Island. It was amazing to see shots from Brooklyn and to see the tremendous amount of smoke that was produced from the fire. Then, I watched as the towers fell to the ground. It was unbelievable and shocking, yet I couldn't stop watching. I felt grief for everyone that lost someone they knew and loved.
Yet, there was some good that day. Stories were heard of heroes in fireman uniforms. Stories were heard of the ordinary men and women who became heroes on the plane that crashed in Pennsylvania. People around the country became united and prayed together. Even Congress seemed to forget their differences for a moment.
Years passed, and like so many others, when I traveled to New York I wanted to see Ground Zero. Kat and I went together and toured the church across the street. We walked and read and had a few tears and remembered the sadness as well as the heroism that prevailed that day. I will never forget pictures of firemen shoes on the fence posts left there after the owners never returned to claim them. My love and pride for my country grew as I reflected on the price that has been paid for our rights and freedom.
So, to remember that day, I made cupcakes today. Something that I love made in remembering a country that I love. A little, sweet goodness that reminds me of the simple things I take for granted because I live in America.