Standing for Honor

Today was a day filled with emotion and memorial. Ten years after four hijacked planes reeked havoc on America, the day was filled with services, volunteerism, and remembrance.

I was in third grade when the attacks occurred. I have seen my peers post all sorts of facebook statuses saying "I will always remember where I was when it happened." I'm going to be honest: I don't remember much of that day. I don't remember what I felt when my parents sat me down and explained the concept of terrorism, what had happened, and what it meant. What I do remember is what came after.

I remember the feelings of insecurity that Americans felt, and still feel, when we board an airplane or go into a large city. I remember the ignorance that we experienced when we wrongfully associated all Muslims as terrorists. I remember the mourning, when we had to bury those who had worked so hard for this country, whether in the towers or to save their fellow citizen.

What I remember most, though, was the sense of pride that I developed after that day. I can say that I know what it is like to take pride in one's flag and one's country. I know how it feels to stand tall in defense of an idea, attempting to spread peace in a world so contaminated by hate.

The scary thing is, some people have forgotten. There are those in the United States who will post "I will always remember" today, and then return to spitting hatred about American defense against those who wish to see our downfall. I don't know whether or not I believe fighting for a just cause is right (because I am overall a fan of peace). What I do know, however, is that when someone challenges your right to live, you have every right to open a fire under their ass.

For anyone who knows me, they know that I don't like the concept of war, but that I am not afraid of a bit of conflict, especially when defending something that I think is right. That being said, I most definitely think it is right to defend the American way and to fight against anyone who tries to harm our nation and its people. I will continue to support the American troops who go out to defend us, and I pray that they return safely. It is also important that those who intend to hurt us know this: You will not succeed. We will not let you take the fire out of our hearts. We will end your reign of terror. And you will feel the whole wrath of the American people.

I might not remember the actual day, but I will always remember the sacrifice that men and women have made for me every day since to ensure that I can grow up in a land that is free. I may not be able to recount my location at the time of the attack, but I can be damned sure that I will remember the feelings I have of pride when I hear the national anthem, knowing well that the American people are too strong to take down without a fight. And I most definitely will remember every day that I am blessed enough to call America my home.

May all of those who lost their lives be a blessing to those who knew them, to those that loved them, and to those that honor their memory today.

May it be God's will.