Do you remember where you were and what you were doing on the morning of September 11, 2001 when your learned that the first plane hit the World Trade Center? How about when the second plane hit? When the Pentagon was hit? When the plane crashed in Shanksville? When the towers began to collapse?
These are all images and memories that most of us will never forget. It was a helpless and scary feeling. I remember being terrified that I might not see my husband or family again. I was bluntly forced to face mortality in a new and different way on that day. My heart went out to those New Yorkers, both strangers and those my family personally knows who live and work there. I cried for them, their lost neighbors and coworkers and for the beauty of life here in the U.S. that we have too often taken for granted.
I just received a wonderfully inspirational e-mail from Cheryl Richardson, one of my favorite nationally recognized coaches. She provided a list of questions she ponders each year on September 11 and I agree that these are an excellent way to remember and honor that day, as well as what’s most important in life.
Here are the questions Cheryl Richardson asks us to ponder:
*~Am I pleased with how I’m spending my precious time on earth?
*~ Am I spending enough quality time with the people who matter most?
*~ Am I doing my best to listen to the voice of my soul so I make real,
honest choices based on what I most want?
*~ If today were my last day on earth, would I feel good about what I’m
leaving behind?
*~ Am I sharing (or working toward sharing) my God-given gifts and
talents with others?
*~ Are there any petty disagreements or differences that I need to let go
of once and for all?
*~ Is there someone I need to forgive?
I will take some time this week to ponder these questions myself. I know that I have made great changes in my own life since 9/11/01 which were very much influenced by taking stock of what was most important to me and how I could use my gifts for highest service. I am not finished figuring things out, but I know that my inner work has helped me to help and inspire others.
Remember – you are here for a reason and there is still time. Don’t take one day or special person for granted. Cherish life!
