We were ending our Sunday Dinner when the news came of the brave military mission that ended our search for the most wanted terrorist and the person behind the planning and organization of the events that took place on American soil killing thousands. 

I sat with family and friends as we watched the President's speech about how the events unfolded and that Osama was dead. I have to say my immediate reaction was relief but as time went on it turned to a feeling of new uncertainty. 

I went to bed last night hoping that this would bring closure to all who have been impacted by the loss of a loved one on 9/11, injured on that fateful day or those who lost our brave service men and women who responded to the call of duty overseas and those that may have come back injured, mentally forever changed, or lost everything like marriages that were unable to survive the deployments, relationships with children that were strained, really the entire scope of sacrifice all because of the events of that fateful day in September.

I woke up this morning and watched the news as I assumed most Americans did to get as many details as possible. I was humbled by all of the stories from people who were first responders on that day, and most importantly the families who lost loved ones on 9/11. Some did say it brought them closure but others said they would most likely not get the closure they need until they leave this earth. One consistent theme I heard as I listened to all of the stories is that while this is certainly a milestone in history and our fight against terrorism, our fight is not over. The truth is we do live in a new scary place and we have to remain vigilant. We can't go back to the way of life we lived before 9/11 where we thought nothing and nobody could reach us so personally as Americans.

As I listened to the President's speech last night, I was taken back to the emotions I felt on that day in September and how comforting it was that as Americans, we came together as a nation. Total strangers on that day would engage in conversation in a caring way and if someone was clearly shaken, there seemed to be a shoulder nearby to commiserate because it impacted us all. Watching the news this morning, it seemed that the news brought people out into the street in unity once again. 

I will never forget the feelings I had waking up on September 12, 2001 and as this day after comes to a close I can't help but feel that the events that took place over the last 24 hours were just a milestone on our journey as a nation. In many ways we have taken away lessons from 10 years ago but we are living in a new world now and going back to a more simple time just isn't totally possible. I pray that our country never forgets the events that brought us together and the sacrifice made by so many to keep us safe. I pray that we continue to learn by the events over the last ten years and find a way to raise our children to feel safe while living in an ever changing world.

My thanks goes out to all of the brave Americans and their families who have endured this fight against terrorism and my thoughts and prayers continue to go out to those who have sacrificed on that fateful day continue to struggle to find their way to a new "norm".

Wishing for Peace and Comfort

Until Next Time,

Laura D.