We all remember where we were on September 11 and I’m no exception. I’ve written about my experiences of September 11th twice – in 2009 and 2011 – and you can click on those links and read my story.

While there are many things I wish to forget about September 11th and the wars that we entered as a direct result of that day, I hope that we never forget the unconditional love we showed for each other:

• Have you heard the story about Gander, Newfoundland Canada? I hadn’t heard it until two days ago and my cynical side didn’t believe it. I took to Google and discovered it was completely true and even better than the story I read on Facebook. Read it and watch the documentary 9/11: Operation Yellow Ribbon by Tom Brokaw. I’m glad I was wrong.
• The millions of people who attempted to give blood because they simply wanted to do something. When Dave and I went to give blood that afternoon, we were told we needed to come back because the donation center was overwhelmed with donors. If memory serves me correctly, we were given an appointment a few days out because they had filled their appointments for days.
• The unsung heroes whose stories we still don’t know of running into burning buildings and helping people get out.
• The kindness we spontaneously exhibited towards each other. People were respectful and slowed down. Suddenly, no one was in a rush because we all knew what mattered and it wasn’t the petty stuff. I wish we could return to treating each other with love and kindness again.

I know that the sad legacy of September 11th will live on for decades to come, but I hope that we also remember all the good that came out of the day.

How can we honor September 11 in a productive way? Thank a first responder for always being willing to run into danger. Re-read the Constitution, strive to understand it and the actual intent behind it. Write your Congressperson discussing an issue you’re passionate about. Get involved in the political process and research (rather than watch tv) all of the presidential candidates. Give blood. Help someone. Take a deep breath and count to 10 before responding to someone who is verbally puking on you. Be kind.

Do you enjoy reading Little Merry Sunshine? Of course you do.

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