Ah, that date, September 11th. I believe the term is “never forget.” And I won’t for a few reasons. The date was always significant because it was my mother’s birthday. And of course the tragedy of what that day now means 23 years after the event.

Both of those events bring tears to my eyes. I miss my mother dearly and that day and the following weeks and months at work are burned into my memory from 2001.

I spent some time yesterday thinking about her and those families who had such tragic losses. People take such little time to reflect on history now that I fear we act without perspective.

My parent’s generation, who experienced the Great Depression, World War 2, Korea, and Vietnam are gone or going soon. Now it seems 9/11 is just becoming another day. How many pause, listen to some of the reading of the names by family members, or just reflect for a few minutes?

I looked at the spot where I used to pick Mom up from work yesterday. I thought about looking through the window at her in the composing/makeup room of the newspaper. I thought about the Thanksgiving meal she used to prepare and many other good and loving memories.

Reflecting is good. Even if they are difficult memories. I think I’ll take a ride by the home I grew up in today. Don’t forget good people.

I was going to post this last night but it was an emotionally draining day and I fell asleep shortly after 8pm.