22 Years

I am writing this on 9/11/2023. It has been 22 years since 9/11/2001. The scope of the personal impact has come into special focus for me. There were 8 children on those planes, the youngest was 2 years old; there were young adults who died, also. Thus, there still are grandparents who daily miss beloved grandchildren. More than 100 children were born after their fathers died on 9/11. They are young adults now, some may be college students or recent graduates, others may be establishing themselves in careers, some may have children of their own. All miss never having that father-son or father-daughter relationship.

22 years is, therefore, a point in time where a large range of generations is affected. The events of 9/11 cannot fade into history, for they are living with their personal loss. Those photos and videos are of their loved ones perishing, not “merely” of horrific events. And there are so many special milestones that have an empty place in their hearts because these loved ones aren’t there to share in them.

When you read this, a few days after the 22nd anniversary, it still will be fresh in your mind. Please take a moment to pray for all the generations of these families who lost loved ones.