Posted in Do you do this? , Uncategorized

Finding Common Ground: A Call to Compassionate Living

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today, I want to take a moment to address something close to my heart a troubling trend that seems to creep into our fellowship as believers. It’s the all-too-common practice of judgment among ourselves, and it breaks my heart. We are all human beings, each one of us flawed and struggling in our own ways. As Christians, we are called to embody kindness and compassion, yet sometimes, we find ourselves acting contrary to that divine calling.

You see, when we judge others, we fail to recognize the battles they might be facing—battles we know nothing about. Perhaps they are Taking care of someone who is ill or stressed beyond their means maybe they have a disability themselves or grappling with personal demons, striving to go to work every day and just stay above board so they don’t stink , Maybe they relocated and are in a new area and learning the way and just need a friendly person to talk to them instead of someone who is condescending and cruel or maybe they are simply trying to navigate the complexities of their lives. The

Word of God reminds us in Matthew 7:1-2 (NIV), “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” When we place ourselves on that high horse of superiority, we forget that we are merely sinners saved by grace.

So, my dear friends, I urge you let us not become petty, gossiping or troublemaking souls who seek to elevate ourselves by pushing others down. This is not what being a Christian is about; it grieves the Spirit and brings disrepute to the name of Jesus. Just as we have received abundant grace, we must extend it to those around us.

Ephesians 4:32 (NIV) instructs us: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

It’s vital to remember that everyone we encounter is deserving of our compassion. Whether in our workplaces, schools, or communities, we must strive to be a source of encouragement rather than discord.

If you find yourself in a challenging relationship with someone, whether due to past troubles or disagreements, rise above and work for the Lord.

Do not engage in gossip or speak ill of others, for everyone has their struggles hidden beneath the surface. As it states in Luke 6:31 (NIV), “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Let this be a guiding principle in our interactions.

In the end, I want to remind you all of the eternal principle of karma. What we put out into this world—both good and bad—will come back to us. “What goes around, comes around,” they say, and it holds true. The Bible teaches us the principle of reaping what we sow. In Galatians 6:7 (NIV), we read, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”

So I plead with you: let’s live like Jesus did—without judgment, with open arms, and a heart full of love for all. We are made in His image, and our actions should reflect that divine likeness. Let’s strive to be decent, godly people, embracing our calling to uplift and support one another within our diverse family of believers.

May God bless you all with hearts full of grace and minds set on loving others.

Posted in Uncategorized

Franjo & Anna Christmas Miracle (Storytelling)Not a real event

Once upon a time, near the town of Bethlehem, there lived a kind farmer named Franjo and his wife Anna.Their small home was made of mud and straw, where they lived with their animals—2 wise old oxen, 3 donkeys, two chickens, and two beautiful gentle sheep. On cold nights, Franjo would light a small fire to keep them warm, heating stones that glowed with cozy warmth.

During the day, Franjo tended to the animals and the very dry small piece of land trying to get some crops to grow while Anna worked hard spinning wool from the sheep to make beautiful cloaks and blankets to sell in town.

One bright day, as they journeyed to town with their goods, they met a young couple seeking shelter in Bethlehem. The couple looked tired and thirsty.

Franjo offered them water and some flat bread and guided them to the town, where they parted ways. Later, as night fell, the couple found themselves in need of a place to stay, but the inns were full. As Franjo and Ann were headed back home , they spotted the young couple and asked how things were.

The man told Franjo they have no place to sleep and wife is very pregnant.

Moved by their plight, Franjo sought help from a friend who offered them a stable behind the inn. The couple, Mary and Joseph, welcomed this refuge gratefully.

In the cold stable, Mary wrapped in a couple blankets gifted by Anna,

Franjo and Anna went outside to gather sticks and rocks to make a fire and heat the stones, so the couple was not freezing. They were gone for a short time when they returned.

Mary had gave birth to a baby boy. To everyone’s surprise, the donkeys in the stable began to speak , proclaiming the child to be called Jesus, is the son of God. In that divine moment, Anna found her voice miraculously restored, blessing her with the ability to speak once more.

Overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, Franjo and Anna knelt in prayer, and Anna, overcome with emotion, welcomed the blessed child with her newfound voice. The donkeys blessed them for their kindness and instructed them to spread the news of the Lord’s arrival.

Filled with astonishment and faith, Franjo and Anna shared the miraculous story with their neighbors, and anyone who would hear it, spreading love and joy wherever they went. They were blessed abundantly, from their fields yielding plentiful harvests to receiving gifts of land from their neighbors. Every day, they sang songs of praise and worship, living their lives in the light of divine grace.

And so, the night the donkeys spoke became a tale of kindness, blessings, and the miraculous restoration of Anna’s voice, forever cherishing the wondrous events that unfolded in their humble stable.

Posted in Uncategorized

Facing the Inevitable: Understanding Death Through the Lens of Faith (Part 1)

I can honestly say I am not afraid to die what I am afraid of is the possible suffering , and of seeing my family suffering because of my death and just the emotional roller coaster it puts people on . So I would like to share my views on the stages I feel are important and hopefully this will take the sting out of death itself whether it’s our only or a loved one.

The Bible talks about the various types of death.

Many people think there is just one type of death :when our body—which contain our soul and spirit dies

Let’s start by laying a foundation about the three kinds of death that are mentioned in Scripture.

Death, is the ultimate unknown in life, it often evokes fear , anxiety, sadness and discomfort in the hearts of many. In this first part of this series,

“Facing the Inevitable: Understanding Death Through the Lens of Faith,” we will delve into the concept of death as seen through the eyes of faith and explore how a deeper understanding can bring peace and perspective to our lives.

Exploring the Faces of Death:

As we embark on this reflective journey, let us first acknowledge that death, in its various forms, is fundamentally about separation. The Bible illuminates three distinct descriptions of death, all centered around the theme of separation. Whether it’s physical death, the separation of the soul and spirit from the body; spiritual death, the separation from God due to sin; or eternal death, the separation from God for eternity, each form underscores the concept of separation.

Physical Death: A Universal Truth

Physical death, the separation of the soul and spirit from the body, is an inevitable reality for all living beings. With a touch of humor amidst the seriousness of the topic, we are reminded of the certainty of physical death, often quipped as the number one killer in America with a 100% mortality rate, excluding those awaiting the prophesied Rapture event.

Embracing Lightness Amidst the Weight of Death:

While the topic of death may seem daunting, a lighthearted anecdote reminds us of the importance of finding humor even in the face of life’s greatest uncertainties.

The doctor told this woman I have Bad news and worse news , she looked at her doctor and said really bad news, and worst news. She’s like well doc let’s have it.

The doctor said the bad news is you only have 48 hours to live, and the woman said, so what is the worst news and the doctor replied we have been trying to locate you and notify you since yesterday.

Just as a doctor’s unexpected revelation brought chuckles, to you it serves as a gentle reminder that laughter and levity can coexist with discussions of mortality.

In this introductory exploration of death, we’ve begun to unravel the layers of this complex topic by understanding its essence as separation. As we progress through this series, I invite you to continue this journey with us, where we aim to transform fear into understanding, darkness into light, and uncertainty into peace. Stay tuned for the upcoming parts of our series as we delve deeper into the intricate tapestry of life, death, and faith.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of our series as we further dissect the facets of death and its profound implications on our existence.

See you all again for part 2 in a couple days

Posted in Uncategorized

The Ugly Heart

Breaking Down the Walls of Bitterness and IsolationIn a world filled with conflict and division, it’s all too easy to let our hearts harden. We see it in the bitter arguments that arise over trivial matters, the refusal to forgive, and the way we sometimes shut others out to protect ourselves from pain. This “ugly heart,” characterized by its coldness and self-preservation, keeps us imprisoned in our own negativity and ultimately leads us to a lonely existence.

The Consequences of a Closed-Hearted Life

When we allow our hearts to become encrusted with bitterness, we create barriers that isolate us from the very connections we crave. An ugly heart can’t form real relationships; it only fosters resentment and anger. Have you ever found yourself dwelling on past slights or grievances? Family members that you had a small argument with has now been decades since you even spoke? That internal narrative can consume you, leading to a life filled with frustration rather than joy. The more we cling to these feelings, the more we distance ourselves from love—both giving and receiving.

It’s important to recognize that harboring bitterness doesn’t just affect us; it impacts those around us. An ugly heart radiates negativity, pushing away friends and loved ones who might want to offer support and companionship. Instead of fostering connection, we unknowingly cultivate loneliness and despair.

Choosing Love Over Bitterness

God calls us to be kind, compassionate, and loving. It’s essential to understand that choosing love over hostility is not just an act of kindness towards others; it’s a gift we give ourselves. Letting go of petty arguments and trivial grievances opens the door to healing. Rather than allowing pride to keep us entrenched in discord, consider the peace that comes with forgiveness.

Imagine the relief that accompanies letting go of grudges. It’s not about excusing wrongs; it’s about freeing ourselves from their hold. When we choose kindness, we soften our hearts, allowing love to flow in and out. This doesn’t mean we should ignore our feelings or the wrongs done to us—it means we acknowledge them but refuse to let them define us.

Embracing Connection

By opening our hearts, we invite genuine relationships into our lives. It’s in these connections that we find support, understanding, and joy. Instead of letting fear or past experiences dictate how we interact with others, we can choose to embrace vulnerability and authenticity.

Let today be a turning point. Start small—reach out to someone you’ve held a grudge against. Apologize if necessary, or simply let them know you care. Look for opportunities to express kindness, whether through a compliment, a helping hand, or simply a smile. As you practice these acts of love, watch how your heart transforms.

Life is short to allow hate animosity resentment stubbornness in. That person you may resent an old friend, family member etc… some day you will regret what you are feeling and doing but it may be too late.

The ugly heart may seem protective, but in reality, it is poison and it’s also a prison. It keeps you bitter, lonely, and disconnected from the beauty of human relationships. God desires for us to live with open hearts, filled with love and compassion for one another. Let go of the pettiness, embrace kindness, and watch as your life begins to change. In the end, love will always warm the heart; allow it to flourish and thrive within you.

Posted in Uncategorized

Happy World Kindness Day:

Happy World Kindness Day: Let’s Prioritize Kindness in Our Daily Lives

On November 13, 2024, we celebrate World Kindness Day, a powerful reminder of the impact that simple acts of kindness can have on our lives and the lives of those around us. Established in 1988, this day was created to highlight the positive power of kindness and encourage good deeds throughout our communities. As we take this moment to reflect on the importance of being kind, let us commit ourselves to making kindness a core value in our daily lives.

The Power of Kindness

In our fast-paced world, it can be easy to prioritize our own needs and concerns over those of others. We rush through our days, often oblivious to the struggles faced by those around us. However, if we choose to slow down and show kindness instead, we might brighten someone’s day in ways we never imagined. A smile, a compliment, or even a simple “hello” can create ripples of positivity that extend far beyond the initial act.

The Bible calls us to live with kindness at the forefront of our actions. Ephesians 4:32 reminds us, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” This scripture encourages us to embody kindness, urging us to not only act kindly but also to forgive and support one another.

Similarly, Proverbs 11:17 states, “Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.” This verse highlights that kindness is not merely a selfless act; it ultimately benefits us as well, creating a cycle of positivity and goodwill.

Reconnecting with Our Neighbors

Reflecting on my childhood, I remember a time when neighbors knew each other by name, helping one another without hesitation. Today, we often live beside people for years without ever knowing them. Families become estranged, friendships fade, and the sense of community diminishes. Let’s change that narrative. It’s time to prioritize kindness, starting with our immediate surroundings.

Imagine if each of us took the time to reach out to our neighbors—perhaps offering to help with groceries, sharing baked goods, or simply greeting them when we pass by. These small gestures foster connection and remind us of our shared humanity.

Kindness Over Cruelty

Being cruel to someone, even unintentionally, can ruin their day. Words can wound, and neglect can hurt. In a time marked by increased division and isolation, let us consciously choose kindness over indifference. Every action we take has the potential to uplift or diminish someone’s spirit. Let’s strive to make our interactions positive, letting love and compassion guide our choices.

As we observe World Kindness Day, let’s remember we all have the ability to make a difference. A thoughtful gesture, a listening ear, or an encouraging word can transform someone’s life.

A Call to Action

So, on this World Kindness Day, let us renew our commitment to kindness. Here’s a positive quote to inspire you: “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” – Oscar Wilde.

Let’s all take the opportunity today to share kindness, promote understanding, and play our part in making the world a better place. Whether it’s through our words, our actions, or simply our presence, let’s put kindness first—because in the end, kindness truly makes the world a brighter and more beautiful place.

Happy World Kindness Day! Let’s celebrate by spreading love and goodness wherever we go.

Posted in Faith, Uncategorized

Choose Joy: Finding Strength in Uncertain Times

In the whirlwind of life, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by challenges, uncertainties, and the unexpected twists that come our way. Yet, amidst the storm, there lies a powerful choice waiting for us: the choice to embrace joy. Today, I want to encourage you to choose joy, not because everything around you is perfect, not because your life is perfect but because the One who holds your future is.

God is perfect

Rejoice in the Lord, Always

The Bible reminds us in Philippians 4:4 to “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s an invitation to cultivate a heart of gratitude and celebration, even when life seems daunting. The beauty of this command is found in its source—the Lord Himself. Our joy is rooted in who He is: loving, faithful, and good. No matter what trials we face, we can find solace in the unchanging nature of God.

Joy vs. Happiness

It’s essential to distinguish between joy and happiness. Happiness often hinges on external circumstances—it’s fleeting and can vanish with the slightest change in events. Joy, however, is a deep-seated assurance that transcends our current situation. It is a state of being that flourishes in the heart, nurtured by our relationship with God. It’s recognizing that while we may be walking through difficult valleys, we are never alone.

Finding Strength in Vulnerability

Choosing joy doesn’t negate the reality of our struggles; instead, it empowers us to face them with a renewed perspective. In times of vulnerability, allow yourself to feel and express your emotions, but don’t linger there. Lean into prayer and worship, inviting God to fill you with His peace. Psalm 30:5 reminds us, “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Each new day presents an opportunity for restoration and hope.

Discovering a Wellspring of Peace

When we choose to rejoice in the Lord, we tap into a wellspring of strength and peace. Life might be throwing us curveballs, but joy acts as an anchor, guiding us through turbulent waters. In John 16:33, Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” This promise reassures us that no matter the chaos surrounding us, we can stand firm in our faith, knowing God has already won the ultimate victory.

Practical Steps to Choose Joy

  1. Gratitude Journaling: Take time each day to write down three things you’re thankful for. Shifting your focus to gratefulness opens your heart to joy.
  2. Worship and Praise: Create a playlist of worship songs that uplift your spirit. Singing praises can transform your mood and draw you closer to God.
  3. Acts of Kindness: Spread joy by serving others. Engaging in acts of kindness not only blesses those around you but also cultivates joy within your own heart.
  4. Meditate on Scripture: Revisit passages that remind you of God’s goodness and faithfulness. Let these truths resonate in your heart throughout the day.
  5. Connect with Community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who inspire and encourage you. Fellowship is a powerful means of experiencing joy shared among friends.

Closing Thoughts

So today, if you find yourself facing challenges or uncertainties, consciously choose joy. Rejoice in the Lord, not because your circumstances are perfect, but because He is. As you do, you’ll discover a wellspring of strength and peace that will carry you through any storm. Remember, joy is not merely a feeling; it’s a choice—a beautiful declaration of faith in the midst of life’s chaos. Embrace it, and watch how it transforms your outlook and uplifts your spirit.

Posted in Uncategorized

Heaven is No Trick & Hell is No Treat

Heaven and Hell: Let’s Keep It RealAlright, fam, let’s talk about heaven and hell—no sugarcoating here! Heaven isn’t some fairy tale like Snow White or Little Red Riding Hood. It’s not just about those epic nights with friends over pizza, binge-watching that new series, downing candy like it’s going out of style, or celebrating that huge sports win. And it’s definitely not just for the “good” people. Seriously, heaven is where God hangs out, and it’s way more than just a vibe.

Jesus said it best: “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it weren’t so, I would’ve told you” (John 14:2). Sounds pretty dope, right? But here’s the kicker—being a decent person who goes to church or donates to charity isn’t your ticket in. Sure, those things are good, but they don’t score you brownie points with God. He sees beyond our shiny outer layer and reminds us, “There is none righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10).

Here’s the real deal: Jesus came through to give us a way to connect with a holy God despite our flaws. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Basically, anyone can pop into heaven if they just put their faith in Jesus and accept what He did for us. Sin is just our choice to go our own way instead of following God’s path. It’s all about believing in Jesus to get that cosmic pass to eternal life (Acts 16:31).

Now, let’s chat about hell. It’s definitely not just a punchline or a place for Halloween fun. This isn’t where your parents threaten to send you if you don’t clean your room. It was originally made for the devil and his crew, and trust me, it’s a serious place of torment.

In the book of Revelation, it gets intense: “I saw a great white throne, and Him that sat on it…and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works” (Revelation 20:11-15). Bottom line: hell is basically the permanent VIP section for those who choose to reject God’s invite to His party upstairs.

So, if you’re thinking about what life beyond this world looks like, remember this: ignoring God’s invitation means missing out on the ultimate love and goodness. Heaven is calling, and it’s way cooler than any social event you’ve ever been to! ✨

Posted in Uncategorized

Seasons & Those In It

In our journey through life, we often encounter people who play significant roles in our story, some for a season and others for a lifetime. It’s important to recognize that not everyone we meet is meant to stay forever. Just as seasons change, so do our relationships, and that’s part of the beauty of life.

Sometimes, we may find that those closest to us aren’t as supportive as we hoped. It can be disheartening to face negativity from our inner circle, especially when we seek encouragement and understanding. As we strive to grow and elevate ourselves to new levels, it’s essential to reflect on who is walking alongside us.

It’s not about placing blame or saying someone has changed; it’s about acknowledging that perhaps they’re not ready to move forward with us. Sometimes, letting go is necessary for our own growth. We can appreciate the moments shared but recognize that it’s time to take a different path.

This isn’t an easy realization, and making such decisions can be challenging. However, it’s crucial to cleanse our lives of distractions and doubts at different stages of our journey. This choice doesn’t diminish the love we feel for them; rather, it emphasizes the importance of loving ourselves, too.

Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your well-being while holding onto the cherished memories. God has great plans for you, and part of walking in that purpose means aligning yourself with the right people. Embrace the journey ahead with faith and courage!

Photo taken by me Deb Andio2022 Youngstown,Ohio Millcreek Park
Posted in Uncategorized

Hurricane- Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father

As Hurricane Milton approaches the Yucatán Peninsula, we lift up prayers for the safety of all those in its path. We ask You, Lord, to weaken this storm as it moves toward Florida.

We pray for those who need to evacuate, that they may do so safely and swiftly. For travelers flying into or out of Florida, may their journeys be timely and without incident.

Surround the people of Florida with Your protective hedge. We ask for Your safeguarding presence over the nurses and doctors sheltering in hospitals and nursing homes during this time of uncertainty.

We also pray for our courageous police, fire personnel, and all first responders. Keep them safe as they serve our communities. For those working in power and utility companies, grant them protection as well.

We remember the homeless, asking that they find shelter and safety. For those who choose to stay instead of evacuating, we pray for their protection and encourage a change of heart to leave if necessary.

For those newcomers who have recently moved to Florida, instill in them a sense of peace and calm, allowing them to focus on preparation without fear.

Calm the winds and still the ocean, Lord.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.  

Amen.

Posted in Uncategorized

My Personal Reflections on September 11, 2001 Remembering, Protecting, and Moving Forward”

I remember September 11, 2001, like it was yesterday. The sky was clear, the air crisp, and the promise of a typical Tuesday filled the morning. Little did I know that by the end of that morning the world would be forever changed, and my perspective on life would be altered in profound ways.

On September 11, 2001, 19 terrorists associated with al-Qaeda hijacked four planes. The first two, American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175, were flown into the North and South Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, causing their collapse. The third plane, American Airlines Flight 77, crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The fourth plane, United Airlines Flight 93, crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers bravely fought back against the hijackers. The death toll was approximately 2,977 people, with specific times corresponding to each plane’s impact:

  • American Airlines Flight 11: 8:46 a.m.
  • United Airlines Flight 175: 9:03 a.m.
  • American Airlines Flight 77: 9:37 a.m.
  • United Airlines Flight 93: 10:03 a.m.

Their intent was to cause mass American casualties by crashing the planes into prominent U.S. buildings.

At 8:46 am, the first plane crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in Manhattan. Seventeen minutes later at 9:03 am, the second plane crashed into the South Tower. A third plane crashed into the side of the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and a fourth plane bound for a federal building in Washington D.C. crashed in a field in Pennsylvania when heroic airplane passengers revolted against the hijackers. 

Within two hours from impact, both 110-story World Trade Center towers (the Twin Towers) crumbled to the ground. In total, over 3,000 people were killed and 25,000 injured as part of these attacks including many first responders who had arrived on-site.

Witnessing the Unthinkable

As I sat in front of the television, my heart sank as I watched the horrific events unfold on the national morning news show. The Twin Towers, symbols of strength and prosperity, were engulfed in flames one after another struck I sat in disbelief and witnessed them eventually crumble to the ground. Seeing people jumping out of windows, seeing the tragedy of 2 huge buildings come down within hours was shocking. To know hateful people would do this was shocking, terrifying and it made me angry. The fear and disbelief I felt were overwhelming, as I struggled to comprehend the magnitude of what was happening. Especially as we seen tower two hit after tower one. My daughter was at work and my granddaughter at day care just up the road. After talking to my daughter a couple times , I went and picked up granddaughter from daycare and brought her to our home.

I seen a low flying plane in our area of Ohio and I believe it was the one that went down in Shanksville Pa.

After picking up my granddaughter from daycare up the road, I was determined to have her day as normal as possible. Even though she was used to being at daycare Will today she was spending the day with her gaga, and I refused once she was here at our place with us to put the News back on it was very hard not to wanna watch it, but I didn’t want her seeing things like that. There was no reason for a small toddler to have to witness things like that, nor hear the chaos in the worrying other adults mine So we played on the floor we did finger painting. We watched all kind of cool things. We sat on the floor and played with pots and pans and made all kind of funny noises we baked cookies. You see while my daughter was working to take care of her and my granddaughter I was not working so I wanted to make sure and my daughter was in agreement that she’d be close to us till my daughter got off work so my job until my daughter got home from work, was to make sure she was protected and safe .

Protecting Innocence

I wanted my granddaughter to feel a sense of normalcy because everyone had their tv on at the time, and I was acutely aware of the need to shield her from the distressing images on the screen. It was a challenging task, considering that every channel seemed to broadcast the same heartbreaking scenes. I made the conscious decision not to have it playing in the background while she was present. She was too young to understand the gravity of the situation, and I wanted to preserve her innocence.

Finding Comfort in Routine

In those uncertain hours, after bringing my granddaughter home from daycare, we sought refuge in the familiar. We played with her little playskool farm, we baked cookies and watched Barney, And we also watched VeggieTales a cute Bible-based kids program. It was a way to provide some balance and normalcy amid the chaos and uncertainty. It was a reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s comfort in routine and the embrace of loved ones.

My husband, Tom, a.k.a. buddy that’s what our granddaughter calls him was out of town working in Missouri and he made sure he kept in contact with us and I was scared for him also because he was working with his company that was it a large factory and who knew what these people were going to be taking targets on next.

I won’t post pictures of the towers being struck because I think that just triggers post traumatic stress for many people that day whether you were watching it on television or you had a loved one that passed away or if you lived it yourself and survived I refuse to post the negative pictures that are etched in our minds .

Reflecting on the Balance

Looking back on that day, I’ve often contemplated the delicate balance between remembering and moving forward. It’s essential never to forget the lives lost and the sacrifices made by first responders. However, I also believe that we should be cautious about the constant media exposure that can retraumatize those who lived through that day and, most importantly, the families of the victims.

The Power of Commemoration

On each anniversary of 9/11, I light a candle and say a prayer, not just for the victims but for our nation’s resilience and unity. It’s a moment of reflection, a way to honor the past, and an acknowledgment of the pain it brought. This simple act is my way of striking that balance between remembrance and the hope of a better future.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future with Hope

In conclusion, my experience on September 11, 2001, taught me the importance of protecting innocence, finding solace in routine, and striking the delicate balance between remembering and moving forward. It’s through acts of remembrance and a commitment to building a brighter future that we can truly honor the memory of that fateful day. As we reflect on the past, may we also embrace the future with hope, knowing that even in the face of tragedy, humanity has the resilience to shine its light on the darkest of days.

Twin Towers (WTC) before and after