Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Post 3: An Event

This week we were asked to reflect on a local event that was in the newspapers, and I can see none more emotionally revealing than the memories of September 11th. The Omaha World Herald featured an article of remembrance in which they spoke of the different events across Omaha ( and the metro area) that were used to show memoriam to the tragic events of that day.

The article is relevant to all Americans and even includes a quote from one of our own prairewolves here at Wesleyan. She states one of the most relevant facts when she notices the need for remembrance and uniting. The concept of "Family of Man" has fallen from our repertoire as a country except in times of turmoil. It was most drastically seen by the actions of people after September 11th but can also be seen in the events following Hurricane Katrina. The American people are like all humans; we are drawn to each other. We want to help. And in such times we bind together as one. It amazes me to see the dedication that people even here in the metro area have to the memory of those lost in the event. People all across the state gave one of their most valuable resource (time) willingly away for a moment. Some stopped in crowded workspaces for a moment of silence. Some placed flags in local parks where red, white and blue shown through the fallen foliage. Some wrote letters to our current heroes across seas. And still others gave their hands to a permanent memorial statue located downtown. The statue, named "On the Wings of Angels" by Littleton Alston is meant to symbolize the ascension to heaven.

It causes you to sit down and think of the people in this world. The fact that these people are not numbers, not just a race, not just a orientation, a disease, a stereotype. People are people no matter where you go. And it is up to you to make it know that you understand that. It is up to us to make our place with and in relation to others. Be it through our actions or reactions, a certain understanding stems from tragedy. Let something be learned.

No comments: