September 11th Remembered

September 11th 2001 was my second day back from paternity leave after the birth of Sadie Ann, our first child. I was a reporter for The Washington Times back then and my usual route into Washington, D.C. took me along I-395. It was driving into the city that I caught the tail end of the attack on the Pentagon. After calling Kerry and making sure she and the baby were safe, I got off the highway and went straight to the Pentagon to start covering this tragedy of historic proportion.I covered the event, rescue and aftermath. It was a shock to the system but a testament to what America can overcome.

Now eight years later I have the honor to serve on City Council in the City of Fairfax. I participated in the City's Patriot Day ceremony where we as a City honor those who not only died and were injured on September 11th, but also those men and women who put service above self - our military, our firefighters, our police officers and all other public safety personnel who are on the front lines.

Police Chief Rick Rappaport and Fire Chief Tom Owens both gave terrific remarks that reminded us that you don't always need to wear a uniform to be a patriot. They talked about teachers, community service organizations and others who contribute everyday to making America just a little bit better and keeping our country strong.

The Mayor also touched on the fact that we must remember to be thankful for the little things in life like the smile of a child or a walk in the park.

These comments made me think that often we look past what we have and look for what we don't. Or that we continue to seek something even though we've often found it. I know I have. It's human.

So on today, look around you and see how much you already have. Look for the good in people and in life. And be mindful of the blessings of liberty and freedom we have.