Let’s rekindle our Spirit

Let’s rekindle our Spirit.

After the horrendous events of September 11^th, 2001 and the people of the UnitedStates wondered how such an attack could actually happen and who could’ve planned such a cowardly blow to innocent civilians, we observed a wondrous thing.  We watched as first responders arrived through the deadly debris and dust to dig through the rubble by hand and anything they could use to uncover the dead and rescue the living.  We also watched as civilians, construction workers, and people in business suits, helping others. 

We swelled with pride as the American flag was erected in the remains of the Twin Towers by firefighters.  We watched as other cities, counties and states rallied to help New York.  We learned of the bravery of passengers on flight #93, who paid the ultimate price for their country.

Directly after the attack, I noticed, here and across the country, a certain type of camaraderie with the American people. 

They took the time to say “thank you”, give their thanks and blessing to our military, police and firefighters, hold the door open for the next person, smile, and shook your hand for no particular reason.

It was a calming, reassuring feeling as you passed the stranger on the street.

As time passed, the camaraderie seemed to be a fleeting memory as we resorted back to our grumblings, fights and blames.  No longer did you hear “thank you” nor have the door held open for you.  Dirty looks abounded. 

Have they won the battle?  Are we ready to take ourselves on?

How could we help?  We should be collaborating with our community leaders to make our cities safer, not battling in the midst of them. 

We should be showing our support for our first responders.  Police, Search and Rescue, firefighters, EMTs.  How about support for our fellow human being, who could be the first to respond to your call for help.  Who were the first responders on flight #93?  Citizens and passengers.  Regular people.  How about the heavy equipment operators in New York in 2001? The people in business suits?

To this day, there are still first responders and others still suffering from being at Ground Zero in 2001.  Many have died from injuries and related illnesses from the catastrophe years after the fact.  Many still suffer from bureaucracy that stalls their proper treatment they deserve from work related injuries and illnesses.  Some have been refused completely and are unable to work because of the ailments.

Wouldn’t it be easier if we maintained the same patriotism and same behavior?

Wouldn’t it be easier to notice someone who seemed mad at the world if we did?

Let’s rekindle that spirit and support each other. Never forget.

 You never know who is going to be your “First Responder”…