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Today is the anniversary marking 16 years since the attack on the twin towers, the Pentagon, and the thwarted attack on the White House. I cannot watch the coverage without feeling like my air has been choked off and tears welling up, especially when family members read the names of their beloved, lost in senseless violence. And yes I know that this and worse than this happens all over our world, but that doesn’t make it any easier to witness.

And the devastation caused and being caused by the recent hurricanes has affected some

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that I know and love, and many of my students and their families. And all of this got me thinking about memories. We all have those physical treasures that remind us of those we’ve loved and lost, and maybe even those we never knew but who are still a part of who we are. Being told to evacuate whether due to flood or fire or something unforeseen, or just having to flee our homes and leave behind all of those precious photos or heirlooms or whatever it may be is so difficult.

And yet, we still have our memories. No one can take those from us. We know we can rebuild and start over. Of course it’s hard and of course there is heartache. But when we work together with family, neighbor, and friends, we find the strength, love, and courage we need to go on. I believe God is there in those hands, in those meals delivered, in those arms around our tears and grief. Reach out to those in need this day and offer them just one small slice of grace.