Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Sept 11: A Day of Remembering

Where were you that fateful day? I was on my way to Moms' group... hadn't turned on the television. I didn't know. Ignorance is bliss, I guess.

I met my husband at the stop sign. He drove home to watch the television.

"A jet just crashed into one of the towers at the World Trade Center," he said.

"Where are you going?"

"Moms' Group." I had two kids in tow. We were committed to our plan for the day.

Moms' Group didn't last too long.

We all went home to huddle with our husbands in shock and grief.

New York seems so far removed from here.

Later, I learned that one of those creepy pilots inquired about planes and lessons near here.

                                     *************

Last night, a text message came through loud and clear from the kitchen.

I woke. About two in the morning.

An armed man lurks in the neighborhood near my son's college.

I believe I am supposed to see the text. It's a reason to pray.

I clomp back to bed. Sleepy, bothered, and yet at peace.

St. Michael, the Archangel, defend us in battle.
Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray.
And do thou oh Prince of the Heavenly Host,
By the power of God,
Cast into Hell, all evil spirits who wander through the world seeking for the ruin of souls.
Amen.

The world is tending towards chaos. It seems to be getting worse. My eyes well up.

In a way though, I surrender to peace. I give in to grace.

Peter responded to Jesus, when many disciples left as they learned of Jesus being true food and drink for the souls of men. John 6: 51-68.

Jesus asked the Twelve, "Do you also want to leave?" Peter replied, "Where will we go, Lord? You have the words of eternal life."

So I think of this often. When trials arise. When evil seems to prevail.

I also think of my friend Mary. She sent me a text in the midst of personal logistic crisis as we moved our children into freshmen dorms.

"Don't forget to rest in peace, in the midst of chaos."

My response: "I wouldn't recognize the peace, without the chaos."

Today as you remember where you were and reflect on where you are today, I wish you all Love, Grace, and Peace.

5 comments:

  1. Thanks for your prayer - we all remember where we were, what we were doing. I remember the shock and horror of watching on live TV. I agree we would'nt recognize the peace without some chaos. Thanks for your sensitive writing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. A post only a mother could love. Thanks for being my only comment. Love you...

      Delete
  2. Susan, you have a beautiful blog. Your post reminds me of where I was that morning. Transfixed all day in front of the television set, numb to the horror happening before my eyes.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Susan,
    I just found your blog. I noticed you had made a comment on Glenda Beall's blog. I'm glad I learned about your blog. I love the header photo. You have a beautiful blog and I will visit it often. Your words about 911 are touching. I remember this sad event well.
    Keep writing and posting on your lovely blog.
    Also, thanks for the great job you are doing as the editor of Netwest's newsletter.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Well, Hi Brenda Kay!

      Thanks so much for connecting with me. Your recognition means a lot.

      Delete