Why is it important to remember the events of September 11, 2001?

 

It's Important To Recognize Real Courage

The concept of courage is occasionally being mischaracterized in our culture.

If people do something involving very little risk, knowing in advance they will be celebrated, applauded and even awarded by the leading people and institutions of the culture in which they live then what they have done really does not need to be characterized as “courage.” For example, if an actor takes on a particular role and plays it in a unique and artistically creative way, that may be interesting or noteworthy—it may even be worthy of an Academy Award—but it is not really an example of extraordinary courage.

Courage is demonstrated when people do something they understand to be right even though there will be very difficult consequences or perhaps even great personal danger, as a result.

I bring this up because real courage is significant and important—even honorable. It is helpful for us to be clear regarding a concept like courage. We need to understand what it really means, and how to recognize it.

So, when first responders show up at the scene of a disaster, for instance, and they enter into perilous situations—at great risk to themselves—to help others, that is courage.

When the infantrymen stepped off the boats as part of the Normandy Invasions, fighting for a cause that was right even though they knew many of them would not make it, that was courage.

Real courage is meaningful, vital and not all that common. It deserves to be esteemed.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” 1Corinthians 16:13&14

It Is Important That We Do Not Forget

As the years go by it becomes easier and easier to forget…

The tragedy of that day.

The shock of that day.

The sadness of that day,

The courage of the first responders that day.

The feelings of unity that we experienced with our fellow citizens that day.

It is important that we do not forget.

September 11, 2001