9/11 and Psalm 23

Although I was too young to fully remember 9/11 and tragic events that played out that day, I have come to understand the story and appreciate the heroes that embodied everything I hope to be on that day. Reflecting on that day, I decided to watch George W. Bush's presidential address the night of September 11th; at the end, Bush hopes and prays that the American people will be comforted by "a power greater than any of us, spoken through the ages" depicted in Psalm 23. 

¹ The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
²     He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
³     he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
⁴ Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

⁵ You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
⁶ Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

12 years later I still feel comforted and assured by these words. Today, I pray for the lives lost, the families changed, and the country broken on September 11th. Today, I'm thankful for our service men and women who put their lives at risk everyday to defend our country against terrorism. Today, I'm thankful to be American.

All my love, Ash.