September 11

I had a flood of memories go through my mind yesterday as I reflected back on the events of 9/11. I remember watching the TV as I was getting Whitney ready for school. Robert had left early that morning to go golfing, I was home alone with my children. As the 1st plane crashed into the Twin Tower I was in shock. I immediately called my parents who were traveling that day through Canada back to the United States. I told my dad that a plane had just crashed into the first tower, while talking to him the second tower was hit. We knew then that it was no accident. My parents stopped to find a TV to see what was going on. I couldn't reach Robert by cell phone, I kept thinking he's golfing and doesn't have any idea what has happened. I then shifted into panic mode as I realized that my parents and sister where in Canada. I was hearing reports on the news that the borders to the U.S. where going to be closed down. My parents where on their way to Boston to catch a plane home. My parents and sister were blessed that day as events started to unfold for them in helping them to cross the border. They found another place to cross that was less crowded and allowed them quicker access back to the U.S. I remember I had just finished getting Scott ready when I got a phone call from my dad, he said they made across the border to the U.S. I started to cry as I realized what it meant to be in the U.S., to have my parents home, yet thousands of miles from home. They were blessed and were able to rent a car to drive home. It took them 5 days to get back to Utah, my parents and sister said it was an amazing drive across the U.S. as they saw flags everywhere, they even saw many painted on barns as they drove through the mid west. I can still remember the togetherness this Nation had for those days and weeks even months after it happened, how everyone wanted to somehow help do something for those who lost their lives, for their families, for America. It was a comfort that day as we heard from President Bush, and from the President and Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, President Hinkley. The peace I felt as I heard them talk. The city which I reside in lost one of their own that day, she and her daughter where on the plane that crashed into the first twin tower. I remember aching for her family that night knowing that they were dealing with such tragedy. Today I am friends with a daughter-in-law and am in awe of how well they have handled that day, and years to follow. It was a privilege yesterday to fly American flag as I do everyday, but yesterday it meant a little more. I am grateful for all those who continue to fight for our county since that dreadful day, for all those who have lost their lives. God Bless America.