I Remember

Today marks the 11 year anniversary of the most horrific day in recent history. It marks the anniversary of the day that changed the way we live our lives forever. And today, on another Tuesday, September 11th, the weather was comfortable and clear just as it was that fateful day. I remember the following days, weeks and months, and how things felt and how they changed.

I remember...how the entire country stopped, whether it was New York City, California, or anywhere in between. Not only did the airline industry stop all air traffic for 2 days, but people stopped what they were doing and gathered and consoled each other and just took time to reflect and to mourn. Suddenly, the hustle and bustle of everyday life slowed and people found time to reflect of how precious life really is.

I remember...the kindness that poured out of so many. Rescue personnel as well as plain civilians flocked to Manhattan to help in any way they could, whether it be in clean up or recovery or just doling out supplies to those who were. Corporations, athletic teams, churches, and communities from all over the surrounding areas and the rest of the countries collected, sent, and helped distribute food and living supplies to rescuers and those impacted. Communities around the country, as well as some in Canada, who took in and welcomed with open arms those who's planes had been grounded in areas other than their destinations, and made the ordeal a lot less troubling. It was a time where the good in the American people truly shined bright.

I remember...the patriotism that this horrible event brought out of just about everyone. Never before had you seen so many people bearing American flags outside their houses, on their cars, on their clothing. You would hear groups chanting impromptu "USA, USA, USA" cheers at sporting events, speeches, concerts, and anywhere else large crowds were gathered. Whether at a star-filled concert at Madison Square Garden to benefit victim's families or a New York Mets or Yankees baseball game, both the spectators and the stars beamed with not only hurt and sorrow, but they also showed a great sense of pride to be Americans.

I remember...the unity towards one common belief, which was a belief in Our Country. In the years leading up to 9/11/2001, Rudy Giuliani hadn't been the most popular mayor in New York City history. But the way he conducted himself after the attacks and the way in which he united not only a city but also the country made him a beloved leader. People stopped seeing him for the political differences they made have had, but instead for his compassion, his leadership and the way he made people feel safe and secure in an otherwise turbulant time. President Bush, still in his first year in office, was dealt an unprecedented situation, and handled it in a very calming and decisive manor. He stood up for the country he was in charge of leading, and took swift action. Unfortunately in the years to follow there were many short comings and failed plans, but none of that should take away form the actions taken that put faith and pride back into our great country initially.

It is sad that it takes this one day each year to think back and remember how things WERE following the attacks of September 11th. What was undoubtedly the worst day in American history brought out the best in people and in a country as a whole. With each passing year, though, that pause and kindness and patriotism and especially unity has tarnished and slipped further and further away. With time wounds heal, but with time all these positives that we gained have also faded. We are at a time in our history when things are not very good. Whether it be financial woes, social issues, immigration and race tensions, or political debates, the country is as divided in 2012 as it was unified in 2001.

So please remember...the way our great country joined together in the face of it's darkest time. Remember the feeling of pride and patriotism and how we were all Americans. Whether you are Republican or Democrat, regardless your ethnicity, whether rich or poor or in between, we need to all take pride in being AMERICAN, and help to better this glorious country our ours. It's time to fight for our common goals and forget the whole "me first" mentality. This country was founded on the belief of "We the People", and it is time that we all remember what those words meant to the founding fathers, what they meant after 9/11/2001, and what they mean now...

Are You Ready for Some Football???

So this weekend began another new football season...a time where fantasy leagues and weekly pools and instant replay become household terms and sanity and tranquility take a temporary reprieve. Yes, every sport has it's share of fanatics and blind devotees, but there is something a little different about football and the football season in general. Unlike the other sports, football games are all played on Sundays (with the exception of the Monday night game...oh, and now the Thursday night game...um, and some Saturday games late in the season), which creates something of an event for many football junkies.

Sundays during football season are something of a holy day for sports fans, where rituals and habits become normal and elevated decibel levels are understood and for the most part accepted. From when she was an infant, my daughter has worn Tampa Bay Buccaneers outfits and hair bows every game day during football season. She learned how to say "Let's Go Bucs" shortly after learning how to say "mommy" and "daddy". She now knows at 4 years old that Daddy is not really mad at anyone when he is yelling at the TV during the games (well, except maybe the stupid play calls or the Swiss cheese defense), but instead just really into the games.

Yes, Football season is very much a unique time in many households. To me, football is the one sport where I can watch just about any game even if my team isn't one of those playing, and really enjoy it. And so for people like me the NFL Sunday Ticket is a glorious invention. Being able to watch any and all games on Sunday, I almost need the relief of the lone Sunday night game in order to give my thumb a rest from clicking back and forth from game to game for 8 hours.

So here's to another season, another year of hope and pride, beer and snacks, jerseys and rally towels, big screens and surround sound, cheering and cursing. I am definitely ready for some football...