I’ve been watching so many reflections on the events of 9/11 for the past week and decided to share my story as well. Working in the broadcasting industry makes you closer to the action I suppose… but it was not the kind of action I desired for my life. And, after working for a station that required that each 9/11 or “Patriot Day” be a day long or even week-long event… I thought I’d never want to reflect again but here goes:

Working in radio, the only thing I wanted to do up until 9/11 was to “spin the hits.” Coming into the radio station that day to follow a traumatized morning show was surreal. We stopped playing music, joined into the live stream from NBC and local affiliate WDIV when the second plane hit. Everyone thought it was the end of the world.

It was the end of the world… as we knew it. In the middle of live reports, squashing rumors, taking phone calls and tears… UPS delivered a package. I’m sure just like packages were delivered around the world that day. But, no one signed for it and it was just sitting there.

Since everyone was so scared, the building was evacuated, the police called in and I had to go to automated news feeds and leave for the day. I’ve worked through tornadoes, dignitaries passing away and the first Gulf War, and was never allowed to abandon ship… but I did that day. I directly went to my son’s school to pick him up, hug him tight… then we all met at my parents to watch, watch and watch some more.

After about a week or so… I made up in my mind that it was time to make some plans. Things I always wanted to accomplish type plans… sort of a bucket list. Going back to school to get my bachelor’s degree and buying a home was top on my list. I did both. Doing what makes me happy in my profession was in there too. I will not work very long for a job that devalues what I have to offer. In a tough job market you should take what you can get… but not if it means you can’t get enjoyment from it.

  Fast-forward 10-years. I’ve gone through a lot. It hasn’t been easy, but I can safely say that 9/11 did not paralyze me. I’m living life the way God has outlined for me. Colossians 3:23-24, ” Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

I think those who live in New York and DC feel the same way. Make your goals, live your dreams. Don’t let the economy or anyone else keep you from living. And don’t ever forget why. That’s my two-cents worth of reflections, what about you? And, how will you continue to live your life?

Peace and Blessing to the families who were left to live after 9/11… and are doing so.