Do you remember where you were when our nation was invaded by terrorists who launched an air attack on several major building structures and historic landmarks, spanning three states in 2001? My own recollection of the tragedy that has since come to be known as 9/11 is deeply etched in my brain as I had just given birth to a precious daughter, five days earlier. Beyond thoughts of the confusion, fear and shock I experienced that morning, are memories of the days and weeks that followed, particularly those highlighting heroic rescues and selfless acts of kindness and support so many people offered their fellowman.
Fast forward to emergency incidents that have occurred throughout the nation since then – hurricane Katrina, for instance, or most recently, hurricane Harvey. I happen to have a family member who lives near Houston who has been telling us of how surreal it feels to see her community so greatly devastated; yet, how oddly wonderful it also feels to experience fellowship and love among her neighbors in a time of great need.
Now, most people in the nation are once again glued to their TV sets, cell phones and computers to remain updated on another developing storm system, Irma. I’ve seen public invitations posted on Facebook timelines where people in safe zones have offered shelter ahead of time to anyone who needs to evacuate Florida.
What is it about national emergencies that has the ability to snap us out of our otherwise often self-absorbed lifestyles and get us to think beyond ourselves, our own needs, our own desires, our own aches and pains to share our homes, our food, our hearts with others?
Our sense of patriotism also seems heightened in times of national disaster; have you noticed? I’ve never witnessed so many U.S. flags unfurling in breezes throughout the nation as I did following 9/11.
It makes me wonder what our society would be like if we could capture the same generosity, love of others, above-and-beyond efforts and Good Samaritanism that is always so apparent when national tragedies strike and apply it to our everyday lives. If we could get a hold of that, we’d be a seriously awesome People.
Writer Bio: Judy Dudich
Judy Dudich resides in the beautiful woods of Pennsylvania, where 24 acres of land and a home-office provide the perfect setting for her children’s home-education and her own homesteading and business ventures. Life is full of blessings (and challenges!) for Judy, as a wife, mother of 10 and Grammy to six. She is a published author, whose book, “I Surrender/A Study Guide for Women” continues to encourage and support others in Christian family lifestyles throughout the world. Judy has also previously worked in the online speaking circuit. Her passion for permaculture, re-purposing, foraging and organic gardening fills her days with learning and adventure that she loves to share.
