Frank Culbertson’s view on September 11, 2001 was unique to him. He was the only American on the International Space Station. You can find his story at https://www.nasa.gov/topics/nasalife/features/sept11.html.

Every one of us in the 9/11 community has a unique perspective and story. Even if you aren’t a member of that community, I bet you have a story of that day.

As this September 11 approaches, I have found myself to be a little more weepy than in the past. At first I thought it was because this is usually a tough time of year and well, 2020 has been quite the year. But what I realized today after reading a friend’s FB post, is my sadness comes from my fear that it will be difficult for my grandchildren or any child to believe that there was a time when we were one. One nation. After the September 11 attacks, we came together. We connected instead of cursed. We held out our hands to lift each other up instead of knock each other down. Don’t get me wrong I know there are many things that need to be fixed and changed. The pandemic has shown us what wasn’t working – healthcare, childcare, the care of the marginalized, who are the essential workers and how do we pay and treat them to name but a few. I know I see all of this from a place of privilege but my heart aches with the thought that if a terrorist attack happened today we wouldn’t survive as a nation.

“and a splintered household will not be able to stand, for it is divided.” Mark 3:25 TPT

“For now we see but a faint reflection of riddles and mysteries as though reflected in a mirror, but one day we will see face-to-face. My understanding is incomplete now, but one day I will understand everything, just as everything about me has been fully understood. Until then, there are three things that remain: faith, hope, and love—yet love surpasses them all. So above all else, let love be the beautiful prize for which you run.” 1 Corinthians 13:12-13 TPT

I am sending hugs, love and prayers to the 9/11 community. A big thank you to family and friends who were there nineteen years ago and those who joined the journey along the way. I am grateful even though my heart aches.

“But he’s already made it plain how to live, what to do,
    what God is looking for in men and women.
It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor,
    be compassionate and loyal in your love,
And don’t take yourself too seriously—
    take God seriously.” Micah 6:8 The Message