September 11th

The hardest thing about being a Christian is remembering to love ALL men, when I think back to this day I remember my utter disgust at those that did this, the anger I felt for the mass destruction, the pain I felt for those who lost family and friends and the sadness that was overwhelming.

I had recently converted to being LDS and I remember that this scripture was given on Sunday, I also remember thinking "how can I pray for such horrible people?"

The conflict over loving our fellow man tore me up, but I needed to remember to love all men, not just the ones that made it easy to love them.

So now I look back on this day and feel the sorrow for all families, even those of the mis-guided individuals and those who's hatred consumed them so much that they did this. I think of the brave and self-less heros that rescued many and those that sacrificed their life so others may live. I think of the individuals who had their life cut short and I think of the effect it had on the world.

One thing I can look on this day with happiness about, is even in this aftermath, a bond was formed that provided strength and love throughout this country. Its hard to think that such a terrible event could have a positive outcome but trials do make us stronger. We are stronger for this and I pray that this never happens again, I pray that everyone afflicted can gain peace in their hearts and I pray that we never forget but we forgive and move forward in a position of love and strength.

Thomas S. Monson: All of us have been dramatically affected by the tragic events of that fateful day, September 11, 2001. Suddenly, without warning, devastating destruction left death in its wake and snuffed out the lives of enormous numbers of men, women, and children. Evaporated were well-laid plans for pleasant futures. Substituted, therefore, were tears of sorrow and cries of pain from wounded souls.

Frequently death comes as an intruder. It is an enemy that suddenly appears in the midst of life’s feast, putting out its lights and gaiety. Death lays its heavy hand upon those dear to us and at times leaves us baffled and wondering. In certain situations, as in great suffering and illness, death comes as an angel of me
rcy. But for the most part, we think of it as the enemy of human happiness.

The darkness of death can ever be dispelled by the light of revealed truth. "I am the resurrection, and the life," spoke the Master. "He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die."

This reassurance—yes, even holy confirmation—of life beyond the grave could well provide the peace promised by the Savior when He assured His disciples: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

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