This day is one of my clearest memories. I had just been dismissed from Japanese class at 10, and was told by a friend of mine in the hall what had happened up to that point. I wasn't even sure what the World Trade Center was. I arrived at the classroom and watched the coverage. Being a sophomore at the time, our class was required attend a pep rally. I was incredibly frustrated that they decided to "push ahead" and ignore the tragedy that had just taken place. During this time the second plane struck the tower. Our teachers did not let us watch the coverage, and during this time the towers collapsed. All of our teachers had this "We can push through and still function" mentality. It was not until that evening I was able to process it all.

Over the past five years, I have frequently heard people ask how a loving God can exist when things like this happen. I have been amazed at all the stories of people who were, for some strange reason, not at work that day. And still others who did make it out. This was a terrible tragedy, but God's glory is still was present. And I am thankful for the brave individuals on flight 93 who prevented yet another tragedy. In the midst of such horrific events, there is so much to be thankful for. Like our continued freedom.

All politics aside, may we be thankful for those who protect us. Yes, there will continue to be events such as these. But God is still in control.