I've Gone Country A blog about a city girl learning a whole new world

Everyday there is something that reminds me of 9-1-1…….however, it is always sadder  when it is the actual anniversary day.

I, like many others, remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when I heard the news and then saw it on the television.

I  was then and still am today,  saddened that there is so much HATE in the world.

Life is precious….it is a gift from God.

As I watched things unfold that day…..I couldn’t help but think of the many people who would not have their loved ones coming home to them……ever again.

A church placed these little flags in the shape of a cross on their lawn in memory of the lives lost that day.  It reminded me of the steel beam cross that was later found in the rubble.       Somber thoughts of eleven years ago.

My heart still hurts for the families of each person represented by these flags.  Spouses that surely lie awake at night missing their loved one.  Children who are trying to understand why Mom or Dad didn’t come home.  Older parents who lost their grown child….everyone is somebody’s baby, no matter how old they are.

I have found when losing loved ones in my life that time helps the wound, but it never goes away completely.

When my father passed away suddenly, I was just a child, it rocked my whole families world.  We had to create a new “normal”.   It is something that touches every part of your life….for the rest of your life.

Years ago, all three of us girls took our kids to the beach to spend some time with my Mom.  While we were there a gentleman drowned in the ocean.  A helicopter came….paramedics tried to revive him… eventually they air lifted him away.  I will never forget how we all stood at the window of the high rise hotel and watched as it lifted off the beach.  Mom took that opportunity to share how this was about to change a families life forever.  She took that time to teach us and her grandchildren a beautiful lesson.  We all stood hand in hand as she prayed for the family who was about to receive this horrible news.  I often reflect on that….she knew how that felt for her many years earlier.  She also knew that it was God that walked with her and brought her through those terrible days of grief.

I do not know what happened to that family….I only know we up held them in prayer.  God knew who they were and I have no doubt that He was there to comfort them in a way that only He can do.

So, as I remember 9-1-1,  I pray for those who were directly affected even though I do not know them.  I pray God will continue to heal the broken hearts and wipe away the tears that still fall.

Through the years many families have had their loved ones serve in the Military.   Much prayer and appreciation goes out to all soldiers striving to protect us each and every day.

I am also reminded in Scripture ……..

Matthew 5 :44

But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

May we always remember….and always….humble ourselves and pray.