Reflection

Today has been rough. I’ve had to avoid social media because it stirs up too many emotions. Today is the twentieth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on our country. That morning, that day, that time was horrific. It was terrifying. It was devastating. It was sorrowful. But the country came together out of our mourning to help those who had been impacted the most. There was such a sense of unity following that day.

On 9/11/01, 2,996 people died. In response, Americans held candlelight vigils, organized fundraisers and donated items. People volunteered in all capacities. The American flag was everywhere; on people’s clothing, waving from cars, hanging from balconies.

That’s what makes today so sad. As of today 677,736 people have died because of Covid-19. 2,448 yesterday alone! Almost as many as we lost in the 9/11 attacks. But the country hasn’t rallied. There aren’t vigils being held for all of the victims. While there are plenty of Go Fund Me’s for individual families impacted by loss, there aren’t major fundraisers to support vaccinations in impoverished communities or meal trains being organized to support the families of the front line medical professionals.

Twenty years later our country has become the most divided I have seen it in my lifetime. The care and safety of our communities turned into a political argument. There are people who won’t wear a mask out of consideration for others. People have resorted to juvenile name calling and finger pointing. It’s an embarrassment. It’s heartbreaking. It’s angering.

After 9/11 we rallied. During a pandemic, we chose sides.

Today has been rough. 9/11/01 was a horrible day in history, but it shined a bright spotlight on our country. 9/11/21 is a horrible day in our country after a year and a half of horrible days in our country.

It’s clear we can do better. My question is why aren’t we?