Take a minute.  Take a minute to hug your kids an extra second today.  I think that 9/11 is the Kennedy moment of my generation.  I will always remember what an absolutely beautiful morning it was.  A little crisp, clear, sunny and bright blue sky.   Perfect.   I remember looking up at the sky that morning and being so thankful for such a beautiful day.  I was truly in that moment.  Then, all hell broke loose.

My daughter was two years old at the time.  When I was able to get her from daycare, we made our way home in a sea of traffic, and confusion.  However, I sang to her and talked to her all the way home.  The normal routine.  However, I truly did not know if the world was ending.  I went to Costco, and bought “provisions”…water, peanut butter, etc.  I also bought a $149 super soft, super fuzzy rug.  I couldn’t afford it.  I didn’t care.  I knew we would go home, play, and deal with whatever was happening – together.  From that day forward, we have dealt with a lot – together. 

I’ve shared this before.  My husband was also taken by ambulance to the hospital that night due to complications from MS.  9/11 was also the last day that he would walk.  Ever.  Please – don’t respond with sympathy about that.  That is not my desire.  My desire is that today, you will:

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Take a minute to appreciate your family more

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Yell at your kids less

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Teach your kids to love, not judge. 

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Do something nice for someone

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Reflect on the 9/11 families and first responders. 

Life can change dramatically in an instant.  Make the most of the moment.