DO YOU REMEMBER?

My parents with the World Trade Center in the background, shortly before the attacks

"Do you remember where you were when the attacks occurred?", that seems to be the question today as we commemorate the 10th anniversary of the attacks of 9/11,.

I think just about everyone can recall watching the first tower burn and depending when you were able to get in front of a television, many of us witnessed in real time as the second aircraft slammed into the next tower and the eventual collapse.

More importantly though is the question if you remember the days following the attacks. Do you remember the sense of civility that seemed to sweep our country? Walking down the street complete strangers would acknowledge each other with a smile and a hello rather than ignoring each other.

Do you remember driving, and drivers were actually polite and courteous, the sound of blowing horns was almost nonexistent, drivers would motion for you to go ahead rather than blow their horns and cut you off.

I think we were actually shocked into realizing what was important, but only for a short time. Maybe it is time we try to think about that sense of civility and where we would be going as a country if it once again became an everyday thing.

And while we are at it, remember the heroes that gave their lives that day in 2001. Police, Fire and EMS personnel and even everyday civilians that stepped up and did what they needed to do without regard for their own well being or safety. Many of them that survived are now showing the consequences as various illnesses and forms of cancer are taking their toll on those that were fortunate enough to survive.

And also remember those heroes that were not there at Ground Zero but are playing the continuing role now as they defend our Country. Remember the members of our military as well as civilians that are playing a supporting role to keep our country safe.

And while you are at it, say "thank you" to a first responder you may encounter. Whether it is a police officer, a firefighter or an EMS worker or a military member. In this society we live in, we never know when the next "9/11" may occur and it is reassuring to know that we have people that will readily head into harms way to protect and rescue us as everyone else is headed the other way, away from danger.