Remembering 9/11

Of the many things I remember from Sept. 11, 2001, the fear I felt in my heart as I raced to pick up my young son, Darren, from school is a feeling that will never go away. So much was unknown at that moment, but we knew for certain that an attack of unspeakable hatred, violence and death had been launched upon us.

I don’t know why I felt the urge to go get Darren, but looking back I think I just needed to share some love and to experience a moment of innocence during that horrific moment. I remember falling to my knees as I accepted his warm hug, and saying a silent prayer that loving kindness would soften the hearts of all those who wished to unleash hatred.

Today, as I remember that heart-pounding fear, I ask us all to never allow our fear to spawn hatred. As we fight for justice and equity every day, we recognize that is the minimum we must ask of one another, as we work toward the softening of hearts with love and kindness.

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