10 Years

Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America. These acts shatter steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve. America was targeted for attack because we are the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world. And no one will keep that light from shining.


--President George W. Bush, 9/11/01

Today I proudly and solemnly explained to Lyman what happened today 10 years ago.  It was sad to have to reveal to him the depth of human against human wickedness in the world.  However, it was a wonderful moment to get to instill in him the beginnings of not just his patriotic pride but build a foundation for his understanding of his responsibility to mankind.  It was neat to teach of forgiveness in the face of hatred, resolve in the face of destruction and compassion in the face of tragedy.  My hope is that one day this day will not be remembered for the significant losses occurred but for the way we, as Americans, stood up after being knocked down and held proudly to our beliefs and freedoms despite the adversary's attempts at destroying us.
 
We are not the judges in the end.  Heavenly Father is our ultimate judge and Christ our emissary.  Wicked men may find success in their acts of destruction, but God the Father will ultimately prevail in His plan.  And if that plan means allowing tragic events like 9/11 to occur so that blood of those lost may testify to the wickedness of those men, then so be it.  Our beloved fallen will not have fell in vain then and their reward in God will be just and sweet.  May all humankind learn from these events and succor brotherhood instead of prejudice.