Last week, I happened to be flying home from my latest trip to Vermont. The date just happened to be September 9 and I was flying out of Boston Logan airport. The idea that I was flying out of Boston on the 25th anniversary of 911 was not lost on me. I felt the weight of history in a way that I can’t really express in words. I’ve never feared flying but I have to admit, I felt a little apprehension that day.
When I arrived, the airport was its usual place of movement. People were arriving, departing, and rushing toward their destinations. While I was putting my bag on the conveyer to take it through TSA, everything came to a screeching halt. Of course, it was momentarily frightening and there was an audible gasp, but in seconds the loud speaking system came on and announced there would be a moment of silence to honor those lives lost 25 years ago on this very day.
As the moment of silence began, the familiar sounds of the terminal softened. For that brief time, the travelers from different backgrounds and walks of life stood together in remembrance. No one was rushing anywhere. All machines were shut down, and it was like a holy moment. I found myself thinking not only of the nearly 3000 lives lost, but also of the families, first responders and countless people whose lives were forever changed.
There was something deeply spiritual about standing in that place of departure and remembering those who never reached their destinations. In this silence, it felt like more than just a remembrance, but like a collective prayer. It was peaceful and heartfelt and a reminder of our shared memories this day. God was present as He always is and I certainly felt His unconditional love for us in His presence at the moment.
Twenty-five years later, the memory of that horrific day remains. We can still pray for those people left behind to grieve their losses. I was reminded that even in the midst of sorrow, faith and remembrance can help us find peace in God’s love and presence. He is our Heavenly Father and our guide for a life filled with love for others. Thanks be to God!
Patty