I was part of two high schools that became one. Until that moment, I did not know the school song, air, or motto. As the first year wore on, I knew everything! I especially understood who my family was.
During this past week many discovered that they were members of a specific family. Americans discovered in a fresh and new way what it meant to be an American. People of all races, colors, and cultures discovered, some for the first time, that they were part of the American family. Overtime I am sure the term “American” will become something else, however for now, that is the name of what binds you, the woman I travel with on the train, the man next to be on the tube, the tight knit group on the subway, and the stranger on the street together. We find ourselves supporting each other, looking for ways we can help, and reaching out to someone who might need something, anything.
The power of the evil that struck will fade. Wisdom states that “wicked people fall to pieces – there’s nothing to them; the homes of good people hold together.” (Proverbs 12.7) The coming weeks will prove this. The big question is, what happens in between?
Families are good things to belong to. It is hard to realize that what I feel today was already there two weeks ago, or was it. For many, including myself, I do not think I knew my true family a week ago. Today I see them, recognize those I meet being part of me, and I look at them differently. Regardless of yesterday’s loss, there are fresh one here for the seizing today! I can/will make a difference to those around me.
Families reach out to their own family. I have seen members give and give more of their self because others were in need. Each act of kindness and compassion is a gift which I want to return; today and in the future. God gave us the pattern for family; I know because we are part of His.
