Lest We Forget…

[September 2011] Can it really be ten years since the terrible attacks on American soil that took place on September 11, 2001?

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We all remember exactly where we were and what we were doing when we first heard about it, and that whole day was surreal. For thousands, the nightmare has not ended because of everything from physical and mental health issues to the economic impact of the loss of loved ones and personal property. My heart aches for each of these people, and I pray they find help and solace in the midst of their pain.

I do not believe in dwelling on a tragedy, but surely it is appropriate to learn lessons and reflect on the outpouring of courage and love that took place at the time and that continues. I want to share a beautiful piece entitled “On My Honor,” written by my friend Anne Goodrich (@AnneGogh) about her son — 11 years old that fateful September day in 2001 — and his poignant response to what he was witnessing on television. I encourage you to read this inspiring story HERE.

The words “Lest we forget…”  of Rudyard Kipling’s famous poem/hymn “Recessional” are haunting me as I think about 9/11. It warns of the perils of hubris and holds lessons for us as individuals and as a country. I share it here:

RECESSIONAL by Rudyard Kipling

God of our fathers, known of old—
Lord of our far-flung battle line—
Beneath whose awful hand we hold
Dominion over palm and pine—
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget—lest we forget!

The tumult and the shouting dies—
The Captains and the Kings depart—
Still stands Thine ancient sacrifice,
An humble and a contrite heart.
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget—lest we forget!

Far-called our navies melt away—
On dune and headland sinks the fire—
Lo, all our pomp of yesterday
Is one with Nineveh and Tyre!
Judge of the Nations, spare us yet,
Lest we forget—lest we forget!

If, drunk with sight of power, we loose
Wild tongues that have not Thee in awe—
Such boastings as the Gentiles use,
Or lesser breeds without the Law—
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget—lest we forget!

For heathen heart that puts her trust
In reeking tube and iron shard—
All valiant dust that builds on dust,
And guarding calls not Thee to guard.
For frantic boast and foolish word,
Thy Mercy on Thy People, Lord!
Amen.

What lessons have you learned from 9/11? Has it made you want to strengthen those connections in your life most precious to you? Has it made you more aware of the work of police and firefighters and medical professionals who work every day to keep us safe? Has it made you appreciate every moment you have with your loved ones? I hope so.

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Additional 9/11 Reflections: “Connection Lessons from Sept. 11“

Photo of Statue of Liberty taken by Dr. John A. Cottrell, Jr.