Remembering 9/11 with Action

As we reflect on the 9/11 terror attacks and remember the victims and the heroes of that day, we find it hard to believe that 12 years have passed since that beautiful September morning quickly turned into one of the darkest days in our country’s history.

After tragedy and loss, clichés are invariably tossed around about how important it is to move on, to “fall seven times, get up eight.” That is, for the most part, the American way. The past year, Connecticut has been hammered by tragedy. Sandy Hook, Hurricane Sandy, and the Boston Marathon bombings have touched us all in some way. After each of these events we have been so proud of the overwhelming compassion, generosity and resilience of the people of Connecticut.

If tragedy teaches us anything, it’s how connected we are to one another. But we don’t have to wait for tragedy to strike. How cool would it be if we could each take a moment this week to look around at our communities to find a way to give back? It could be something simple. Bake cookies for the senior center in your community. Check in on a sick neighbor. Organize a food or clothing drive. Pick up litter along your street. 

9/11 has become a recognized National Day of Service and Remembrance yet this spirit of giving back doesn’t have to be limited to this week alone. There are plenty of ways to get involved in your community throughout the year. We are fortunate to get to work with some of the best and most effective nonprofits in Fairfield County and they always need volunteers. We can’t think of a better tribute to the victims, nor a better response to terror and tragedy, than kindness and compassion.

Here’s a list of 9/11 memorials this week in Fairfield County. If you can’t make it to a memorial service, Connecticut’s 9-11 Living Memorial at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport is worth a visit and offers a peaceful environment for reflection and remembrance.

For more on volunteering in Connecticut throughout the year, check us out.