Never Forget

As the anniversary of 9/11 approached and stories and pictures flooded the web and TV, I couldn't help but recall my memories from that day and reflect on how it has influenced my life over the last 10 years. At the time I had just started my last year at TCU, and was very much consumed with college life and figuring out post-school what am I going to do with my life plans. For me that day punctuates those blurry lines between child and adulthood. It brought a new awareness of the world around me and the realization that there were people consumed with extreme hate and the ability to cause destruction at any cost. It also served for me as a catalyst to live life with purpose and to never miss an opportunity for adventure.I still remember that day so clearly. I woke up that Tuesday morning, a clear and sunny day in Ft. Worth, Texas. I was class-free for the day and I headed to do laundry at my apartment complex. As I drove, the morning show DJs came on the radio mid-conversation talking about how this would be a day that we will all remember forever. I sat in my car and listened as they talked about the events unfolding in New York. I remember feeling numb as I drove home and turned on the TV. I watched for hours feeling helpless, shocked and so heartsick for those affected and their family members. Later in the day, my friend Rachel and I waited at the blood bank for hours to donate blood, just wanting to help out in some small way. The events that day gave me a new appreciation for my country, for every day heroes and for people who protect our freedom. It should always remind us to never take life or loved ones for granted. My blog is my way to remember and pay tribute. I will never forget....

"Whenever you see darkness, there is extraordinary opportunity for the light to burn brighter."