Life, Death and Elsie

I remember where I was that day 8 years ago; the confusion that turned into panic, flipped to brokenness, then finally landed in rage. I remember the prayers of desperation, not knowing if that was the end or just the beginning. Should we stockpile food and weapons? Should we run for the hills? Should we be glad it was over? I opted for weeping, crying out to God and holding my family close.

Since then this date has affected me like it has so many other Americans. It is sacred. A day of remembrance and respect. A day of thoughts and prayers going out to families who's losses must feel as fresh today as they did on that terrible day. I have tread lightly, not making plans that included anything but the most mundane, feeling as though any sense of celebration would trivialize those who were lost. It was such an invasion, a violation, a loss of what we as Americans took for granted. That sense of pride in our country was bruised by the punch we took in our collective gut.

It is more than a day of remembrance to me now, though. It is a day they tried to take away from us and, so far, I've let them have it. But no more.

What a better way to honor those who's lives were taken away so brutally than to thumb our noses at those who bullied and beat us up that day by showing them they didn't win. I won't live in fear. I won't close the curtains in my mind, centering my focus on what they took away. I will, instead, remember the bravery and strength of those we lost, tipping my hat to those who stepped in to rescue and even gave their lives to alter the terrorist agenda. I refuse to allow short-sighted men to kill my resolve, my pride or my joy. I will, instead, choose life.

Life is proof that darkness can never occupy the same place as light. Life is proof that joy and laughter can soothe even the most broken of hearts. Life is proof that the mundane isn't enough. Life bursts forth and propels us to engage in relationship. Life is proof that we are meant to love, embrace and encourage each other.

Elsie was born today. September 11, 2009. I WILL CELEBRATE!!!

Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. Deuteronomy 30:19-20a, NLT