September 11, 2001.

Like so many others I vividly remember every intricate detail about that day, awaking to my mom in tears as she somberly broke the news and watching in utter terror the attacks that came upon our nation. It felt as though the world as I knew it was coming to an end and in those moments my eyes were glued to what I was beholding. It seemed so surreal.

Today marks 7 years since the tragic day we were attacked on our soil and so many lost their lives due to the fatal brutality of terrorism. So many spouses, children, loved ones, friends and co-workers were affected by these heinous acts and may we never ever forget the lives that were lost that day. May we never forget those who sacrificed their lives heroically to save another and may we never forget those who grasped the gravity of the moment and understood the threat as they courageously took matters into their own hands on Flight 93 when they realized their fate. May we never ever forget.

Today I mourn with those who mourn. As an American Citizen affected by these events I can't help but be somber and respectful as I look back and commemorate those who made a difference in their actions and lovingly and notably reached out to those in need. The self sacrifice expressed through their actions is a picture of true love and of true brotherhood- "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13. I am humbled by those sacrifices. Our country was forever changed that day and there can be no denying that despite these grave occurances there was a unity in our Nation that truly did something inexplainable.

Here we are 7 years later and the war on terror is still going on as we speak. Our troops- men and women of honor are fighting against anything like this ever happening again. How can we not pay them our respect and admiration? How can we not pray for them and show them recognition?

Sometimes it's hard for me to believe all of the things I have witnessed throughout my life that will undoubtedly go down in history. The things that shook our nation, brought us closer and turned us toward God as well as all the things that have divided our nation. I imagine that we will behold so much more- it's undeniable.

I am a patriot and I am beyond proud of my country and our beautiful history. I do not think that we realize how unbelievably blessed we truly are. We gripe and complain about so many little things that really have no significance compared to the trials and losses of others. Today, I remember the heroes and I remember all of the innocent blood shed and I can't help but sit here, tears streaming down my face in disbelief and in utter gratefulness that I am an American and that God has blessed me in ways unimaginable.

Many things have changed since that September morning in 2001 but one thing remains constant, the bond that every American now shares; unspoken but strong, we came together as a nation that day regardless of religion, race or creed and today we stand united on this 7th anniversary to remember the heroes of 9/11.

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted"- Matthew 5:4

So, say a prayer for those mourning today. Say a prayer for our troops. Say a prayer for our Nation and it's leaders. Say a prayer for the future of our Nation.

Never forget and be grateful because we truly are blessed beyond belief.

Much Love,

-Amber