Reflection

I love country music. Those who know me well....know why. I am weepy, sappy - you know the type. So I must say -- and I'm so serious when I say this -- country music moves me. So as I do every year on September 11th....I reflect.

Alan Jackson has a song "Where were you", referencing 9/11/01. I remember that morning perfectly. It was one of the happiest mornings of our days together. I had a just taken a home pregnancy test and it was positive so I floated into work but then my world halted as news hit of what was happening and we all sat glued to the one tiny TV in our office. I remember not knowing what to do in the days that followed. I remember crying a lot. I remember sitting in a church pew with co-workers during our lunch hour for a nation wide moment of silence and prayer.

What I am reminded of now, is simply to not take life for granted. My brother-in-law bravely served almost 2 years in Iraq and is safely home. There are many people that haven't been so lucky. But on this day (and many others) I remind myself to be thankful for the people who so bravely protect us so we can have the freedom that we love. I remind myself that life is very fragile and to handle it with care. I remind myself to not things for granted and to appreciate all that I have.

Give your family and friends an extra hug today! And be sure and say "thanks" when you see someone serving our country.

"Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning)"

by Alan Jackson

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day

Out in the yard with your wife and children

Working on some stage in LA

Did you stand there in shock at the site of

That black smoke rising against that blue sky

Did you shout out in anger

In fear for your neighbor

Or did you just sit down and cry

Did you weep for the children

Who lost their dear loved ones

And pray for the ones who don't know

Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble

And sob for the ones left below

Did you burst out in pride

For the red white and blue

The heroes who died just doing what they do

Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer

And look at yourself to what really matters

I'm just a singer of simple songs

I'm not a real political man

I watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell you

The difference in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith hope and love are some good things he gave us

And the greatest is love