In some ways it doesn’t seem like 10 years since the events of 9/11. I can still remember September 11, 2001, when I was on vacation in Dublin, Ireland, with my mother-in-law and my daughter.
It was upsetting to be away from our country while it was being attacked, but the Irish people gave us their support during that time of tragedy. Ireland even held a day of prayer and remembrance for the victims of 9/11 on September 14, 2001.
Still feeling vulnerable
Now 10 years later, our country has done much to increase security here and abroad, but we still feel vulnerable. We’re holding our collective breath, waiting for another attack to happen.
Rather than relying on even greater tightening of security and counterattacks on terrorists, I think we as a nation need to act more like the first-responders who assisted the victims in New York City and other areas with such courage and compassion. I believe that’s what Jesus would do if He were walking on earth today.
Prayer and compassion
We can begin with prayer for all those affected by violence and hatred, asking God to change the hearts of perpetrators.
Another way to remember the victims of 9/11 is by service. This is the vision of two men, David Paine and Jay Winuk, who lost his brother in the collapse of the World Trade Center. They have joined together to pursue a simple yet forward-looking vision for 9/11.
They hope to inspire Americans to pay tribute and remember the victims by performing good deeds and engaging in charitable service. They created the nonprofit group, MyGoodDeed Inc., to ensuring that “something positive arises from the ashes of the 9/11 tragedy.”
Paine and Winuk want to inspire one million people to observe the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, which has been endorsed by President Barack Obama and the Points of Light Institute.
“I Will” public service announcements are promoting this cause. For more information, go to www.911day.org and even indicate what good deed or charitable activity you will do on 9/11.