Worldandnation: Life changes

World & Nation

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Life changes

By TIMES WIRES
Published September 9, 2006

Lots of good came from terrible act

It was not hard to figure out that we were under attack. Fear suddenly took over and thoughts of my family became constant, as I was at my place of employment. Days after the incident, feelings were abundant. Sadness, confusion, hatred and anger, fear of another attack, and many others seemed to bombard my mind.

I do remember lots of good coming from that terrible act of destruction and death. President Bush on the heap of fallen debris shouting in a bullhorn that "I hear you" I felt comfort from that.

The firemen on street corners collecting for the cause. Most all gave something.

The neighborhood vigil at the local park, where neighbors who have lived next to each other but never met were embraced in song and prayer with lighted candles in hand.

Families calling each other and it wasn't even a holiday. Churches seeing increased attendance at services to honor the brave and the fallen.

The Congress on the Capitol steps singing our national anthem.

It brought our countrymen together like nothing I have ever seen before and it brought many in touch with reality and with faith in a higher power.

I remember the flags filling the skies in all our neighborhoods. The patriotic songs on all the radio stations. The fire trucks with huge U.S. flags flying from the ladders. Stickers of support on nearly every car. Most of all, I remember the words that echoed from every corner of our great country: GOD BLESS AMERICA.