Do you remember where you were 15 years ago today? I think everyone in the United States does. We all know how we found out, who called us or when we watched the travesty on TV and how we felt. I searched around today to try to find inspiration for myself or something I could share with you and I came across a great article that actually gives suggestions on how to honor the innocent lives we lost on that day.
1. Deliver flowers or just stop by to say thank you to your local fire and police stations. Any form of appreciation would be a great move on this day as firemen and policemen are our local heroes.
2. Take a break for each of the 6 moments of silence to commemorate the events that happened during these times: 8:46 AM, 9:03 AM, 9:37 AM, 9:59 AM, 10:03 AM, 10:28 AM.
3. Check out your city publications to see what community events are being organized, and volunteer to help. If there aren’t any events, organize one! Consider gathering community members at a park to hold the moments of silence together.
4. Join a volunteer service, such as a food drive or neighborhood cleanups. September 11 is also the National Day of Service and Remembrance to encourage Americans to take part in service projects. Visit United We Serve for more information.
5. Donate Blood. In the days following 9/11, blood donations soared. With Americans looking to provide immediate assistance to those injured in the attacks, the country’s blood banks collected 600,000 more units in the fall of 2001 than they would have otherwise.
Today, with the Red Cross’ national blood supply having recently reached a 15 year low, going to a local blood bank and donating is among the most important contributions you can make to your community.
