It’s now been fifteen years since the attack on 9/11. Yet for those of us who lived through those dark days it seems more recent. Now it’s commemorated by the holiday designated as Patriots’ Day.
To me it will forever be simply 9/11.
I remember sitting on my bed that morning, crying as I watched the tragedy unfold on television. Later I went to one of our son’s school where I was a regular volunteer. I stood and cried with the people in the office as we watched the towers fall.
But I had no idea how the world would change that day. Scores of young people—my son included—mark that day as the guiding force that led them to service in the military. Because of that day, I sent a son off to war.
For the most part, my generation had eluded the specter of war. I didn’t have any friends who joined the military or were called to serve during battle. There had been skirmishes in the world, but nothing like we face now. After that day, we faced the worst aspect of war, sending our children to fight.
And the very face of war has changed. Those who wish us harm hide in plain sight. There’s no longer a front line. Civilian casualties aren’t something to be avoided. Instead, our enemies seem to delight in attacking the defenseless. Our sense of safety has narrowed.
The only thing I know for sure is that God is still in control. He promises that He’s the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. In these ever-changing times, that’s the only foundation that can deliver the peace we so desperately need.
