I am all for creating a memorial for the nations loss on September 11 2001. From all the innocent people in the towers, to the terrified passengers on the planes (many who fought bravely and averted even more disaster) to the valiant Police, Firemen and others who risked their own lives to save and protect others. All of these people need to be remembered and a memorial where one could go and pay your respects seems a grand way to do this.
What I don't want to see and what I am really afraid is going to happen will be that this day will become a 'memorial day' of some description. Because when that happens it is no longer about remembrance, it will turn into 'September 11 BLOW-OUT SALE! Come on down and get your best deals! When this day is over these savings go UP IN SMOKE!' And that's NOT remembrance that’s taking advantage of the situation to make a buck (Not that I'm not above making a buck, I just feel it's tacky in this instance).
If you feel the need to 'celebrate' this day instead of remembrance, please do so with a bit of thought and care. This isn't Valentines Day or Columbus Day or any other day made up by the card companies. Don't go out and be a consumer whore by spending your paycheck on flags and Red, White and Blue paraphernalia. Instead do something thoughtful, peaceful, something that will help a neighbor, friend, stranger or family. Plant a tree in memory of what this day means to you. Then every time you pass that tree think about what this day means, tell your children, teach them the responsibility of doing what’s right and not just what 'every-one else does'. Donate time to a local 'helping' organization. Heck, Even buy lunch for that guy at the corner of the street asking for hand outs with the 'God Bless' sign. It will make you feel better and might brighten someone else’s day also.
Most of all just take it easy out there today, folks. There are many crazy people out there who will look to this and any other day as a chance to create chaos in the world. Be vigilant, be aware, and be careful.
Dave ...
