Wednesday, September 11, 2002

A day to remember

We were frightened, yet we were united. We were stunned, yet we were courageous. We were confused, and in that confusion our first, most driving and compelling instinct was to help each other.

We were shocked and saddened by the ruthless attacks.

Yet instead of lashing out we reconnected with those things we value most. Instead of being frightened into hiding, we strengthened our sense of purpose and our commitment to the things that truly matter.

The day called out for heroes, and genuine heroes selflessly came forward in heartening abundance. We lost too many of those we loved, and we found a new, more profound appreciation for those who are still with us, for each other.

We were suddenly and violently stripped of our pretenses, and many of our assumptions were ripped away. We found that underneath it all, there was still more to treasure and more to live for than we ever could have imagined. We experienced the worst, and it brought out our best.

September 11, 2001 will always be a day to remember. And each time we remember, let us resolve again to honor those who sacrificed so much, to honor them not merely with our tears, not merely with our memorials or sadness, but with the way we live.

For the most powerful, lasting monument we can build is a world of people whose lives are filled with freedom, meaning, true fulfillment and joy.

— Ralph Marston

Uncomfortable       Welcome each moment

Copyright ©2002 Ralph S. Marston, Jr. All Rights Reserved. The Daily Motivator is provided for your personal, non-commercial use only. Other than personal sharing, please do not re-distribute without permission.