the day in which we reflect.

today's the day to think about the attacks of 09.11

we recall where we were when we heard the news {in bed on the west coast, listening to the radio}, how the day played out, and the ways in which it changed us.

i'm thinking today about the difference between 10 years + 1 day ago and now... the patriotism that immediately united us as brothers and sisters, the inconveniences, the liberties we've lost, and the sweet comfort we've felt as we've relied on our father in prayer.

we are blessed. shoeless body scans at the airport and all - we are blessed to be members of this nation.

"blessed be the nation whose god is the lord" - psalms 33:12

and in the next week or so when the tv reports and the talk radio complete their memorial reports and slide back into their routine of dim speculation on the state of our nation, let's remember why our nation is blessed, instead of why it's failing. and let's do our duty to maintain its greatness.

we are so blessed.

"Let us be prayerful. Let us pray for righteousness. Let us pray for the forces of good. Let us reach out to help men and women of goodwill, whatever their religious persuasion and wherever they live. Let us stand firm against evil, both at home and abroad. Let us live worthy of the blessings of heaven, reforming our lives where necessary and looking to Him, the Father of us all. He has said, "Be still, and know that I am God" (Ps. 46:10).

Are these perilous times? They are. But there is no need to fear. We can have peace in our hearts and peace in our homes. We can be an influence for good in this world, every one of us.

May the God of heaven, the Almighty, bless us, help us, as we walk our various ways in the uncertain days that lie ahead. May we look to Him with unfailing faith. May we worthily place our reliance on His Beloved Son who is our great Redeemer, whether it be in life or in death."

gordon b hinckley, october 2001

photo credit.