{Run For Remembrance}

If you were to ask me what I did last Tuesday, I probably couldn’t tell you. But, if you were to ask me what I was doing 10 years ago on Tuesday September 11, 2001, I could recount my entire day with exact details.

Today marks the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001. Most of us remember where we were when the devastating story unfolded. We all probably felt a range of emotions that we had never experienced before; shock, anger, deep sadness, confusion, frustration, fear, love, and appreciation to name a few. We all probably sat in front of our television sets and watched in awe for the next several days at the aftermath and response to the devastating attacks against our country. We all probably were more overwhelmed at the unity and bravery we saw from our own country, the American People, than we were with the evil and hatred from those who set out to hurt us.

10 years ago

We learned that evil does exist in our world

We learned that hatred is destructive

We learned that life is fragile

We learned that time is a gift, not a guarantee

We learned to hold our children a little tighter

We learned to say the words I love you a little more to the people who mean the most

We learned that good can be found in the midst of something bad

We learned that America really is a great place to live

We learned that heroes surround us and that courage does not waver just as bravery has no limit

We learned that community brings us together and strength creates unity  

Because

Loss is worth remembering

Sacrifice is worth honoring

Freedom is worth defending

As today’s date approached, I knew that I wanted to do something special. I wanted to show my appreciation for the sacrifices that have been made and the sacrifices that continue to be made every single day so that I can live the life that I choose to create for myself and so that I can watch my children make their choices as they pave their own paths in life.

When I heard that the organization Soldier’s Angels was hosting a special 5K in honor of 9/11, I knew that I wanted to be a part of it (my goal is to one day make my way to New York City for the Tunnel to Tower run which honors one of New York’s fallen firefighters). I couldn’t think of a better way to spend today (the 10^th anniversary) than being surrounded by local firefighters, policemen, and of course, the brave men and women who defend our country’s freedom.

When we pulled up to Veteran’s Memorial Park, the first thing that we saw were two fire trucks holding up nothing other than Old Glory. My body was literally covered in chills as we drove by all of the firefighters as they stood next to their trucks with the huge flag waving behind them.

As Jason and I made our way through the crowd, we noticed that we were surrounded by signs and banners all of which were in support of our troops as well as first responders and the people who lost their lives. Trees were covered with flags and yellow ribbons. The ambiance of the crowd was truly amazing.

The 5K was nothing short of amazing. I can honestly say that today’s run was absolutely one of the best runs I have ever experienced. The energy as well as the atmosphere was truly incredible. Taking the time to pause for a moment of silence, reminding ourselves why we were all there ready to move forward in our running shoes, made the morning that much more meaningful. I felt so honored to be able to run alongside the people who work day in and day out to keep us safe.

Words can’t describe the pride I felt in my heart as I watched military members run in formation. I literally had tears in my eyes as the Young Marines (which included 6 and 8 year olds) crossed the finish line together.

After the race, the runners were asked to take a seat for a special memorial ceremony. It was emotional to stand and listen to the words of our National Anthem. It was extremely emotional to listen as kids stood in front of the crowd and read their essay’s about what 9/11 meant to them. It was emotional to recognize the sacrifices that have been made and that continue to be made each and every day. It was emotional to watch our country’s flag wave her colors as Taps played in the background. However, these were the things that reaffirmed my pride as an American. These were the things that made me look at the people around me, especially my husband, and appreciate all that has been given to me in life.

 

This was the first event Jason and I have been able to run together since his return from Afghanistan.

The t-shirts were by far the best shirts we’ve ever received!

We both walked away with more than we could have ever hoped to gain and....
a few bragging rights too.

Jason surpassed his goal

and I walked away with an awesome medal 
for placing 1^st in my division!

   

"American’s are stronger than ever. We will forever remember those we lost on September 11, 2001. In honoring their memory, we will remain true to our commitment to freedom and democracy" Evan Bayh 

God Bless America