SEPT 2021 Blues Vol 37 No. 9

REMEMBERING THOSE

REMEMBERING THOSE WE’VE LOST SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 Oh, Gracious God, Today, we come before you with heavy hearts as we remember the events of 9/11. For years, those numbers simply meant a call for help. Now they also remind us of September 11th, 2001, the date of the worst terrorist attack on the United States of America and one of the deadliest days ever on American soil. We are here today to remember the attacks and honor those we lost from both our community and our armed forces. For some of us, 9/11 is a mixed bag of emotions. We hurt deeply for those who lost their lives and those who lost their loved ones. We mourn the nearly 3,000 who died that day. We are humbled by the bravery of the first responders. We are still saddened by the loss of our brother and sister firefighters and police officers. We continue to grieve with our neighbors in the loss of our national innocence - our false sense of security. We remember when churches, synagogues, and temples opened their doors to ALL people. We remember strangers carried strangers out of buildings. We remember those we lost and those we saved. We remember the bravery of the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93. Yet, we continue to struggle with the immense tragedy of that day, so long ago. Lord, we still remember how the world responded, supporting us, and even declaring us one people. God of all people, teach us to be patriotic again. Teach us to see the frailty, beauty, and value of life in light of this tragedy rather than using it to elevate trivial difference to the heights of divisive reasons for hatred. Remind us of the way the true heart of our nation’s people was revealed in open doors, open arms and open hearts. May we never forget that on that day we did not focus on nationality, wealth, race, or education. We focused on humanity and love for our fellow AMERICANS. Lord, call us back to that place in our hearts. Instill in us the deepest sense to be that people once again. We lift up to you all those who, even today, 20 years later, continue to suffer from the loss. May we continue to heal and help each other just as we did that day. 54 The BLUES POLICE MAGAZINE The BLUES POLICE MAGAZINE 55 54 The BLUES POLICE MAGAZINE The BLUES POLICE MAGAZINE 55