9/11/01 -- The day that the course of history changed...

It's been seven years... a long time and a short time.

The tragedy is still fresh in my heart and mind.

The shock, the tears, the fears.

Today, I stand with those who live as we dedicate ourselves to truly living each day that we have on this earth.

Those who lost their lives seven years ago started out their day like every other but the day's end was never what they intended.

Today, my aunt who was battling cancer died. Early this morning, she breathed her last breath and went to join those who died seven years ago.

Today is the anniversary of a day I will never forget.

Hug your children.

Tell your spouse how much you love them.

Do something out of the ordinary to commemorate life.

It might be something outrageous like a hot fudge sundae, or a wild adventure to a place you always wanted to go, or a quiet moment with someone you love as you watch the sun set and the first stars of the night appear.

I realized this morning that too often we take life for granted and assume that we can let this day pass if it doesn't start out like we expected...but we may not have that luxury.

Live like you mean it!

A moment of silence to those who sacrificed their lives on 9/11/01 and to those who have lost their lives defending our freedom since then.

We salute you.