We Still Have Hope

On the anniversary of the attacks on the world in NY at the Twin Towers, most of us are experiencing the gamut of emotions that we felt that day 12 years ago. I actually dread this day every year because of the sadness and fear it can bring back to the forefront of my heart and mind.

I recall being pregnant with my first child, due the following month. I was fearful of what life would be like for my children and the world after this terrible event. Though the events of that day were so horrific, there are some beautiful things that also happened as a result. People held their loved ones closer. We helped each other more. We were unified in support for the families that lost members that day. We rallied around those who help to protect us and our freedoms. Where there was hate, there was also love. Where there was sadness, you could also find happiness. People leaned on God a little more. Perhaps prayers became more fervent, more deliberate, more personal.

I found comfort and peace in knowing that regardless of what happened (or happens) to our nation, God is still in charge. If we are trying to do what is right, we have no need to fear. God's watchful eye and His gentle hand are there to help and guide us through perilous and difficult times--regardless of how big or small. 

Since the tragic events of that day, LDS Church leaders offered comforting insights and inspiration:

“Peace may be denied for a season. … But God our Eternal Father will watch over this nation and all of the civilized world who look to him. … Our safety lies in repentance. Our strength comes from obedience to the commandments of God.

“Let us be prayerful. Let us pray for righteousness. Let us pray for the forces of good. Let us reach out to help men and women of goodwill, whatever their religious persuasion and wherever they live. Let us stand firm against evil, both at home and abroad. Let us live worthy of the blessings of heaven, reforming our lives where necessary and looking to him, the Father of us all. He has said, 'Be still, and know that I am God' (Psalms 46:10).

“Are these perilous times? They are. But there is no need to fear. We can have peace in our hearts and peace in our homes. We can be an influence for good in this world, every one of us.” (President Gordon B. Hinckley, October 2001 General Conference)

"Today, the world remembers the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. We are still shocked and dismayed at the infamy of those cowardly attacks.

"We know that much good has come of these dreadful circumstances. From the smoke and ashes of New York, Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania and other areas of the world has arisen a greater sense of unity and purpose in ridding the earth of evil and providing for the freedom and security of all people. We endorse the righteous efforts of God-fearing people everywhere in this important endeavor.

"May our Father in Heaven smile upon us all, comfort those who continue to mourn and guide the leaders of nations in the quest for justice and liberty is our sincere prayer." (Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, Sept. 11, 2002, Memorial Service)

"If there is a spiritual lesson to be learned from our experience of that fateful day, it may be that we owe to God the same faithfulness that He gives to us. We should strive for steadiness, and for a commitment to God that does not ebb and flow with the years or the crises of our lives. It should not require tragedy for us to remember him, and we should not be compelled to humility before giving him our faith and trust. We too should be with him in every season.

"The way to be with God in every season is to strive to be near him every week and each day. We truly 'need him every hour,' not just in hours of devastation. We must speak to him, listen to him, and serve him. If we wish to serve him, we should serve our fellow men. We will mourn the lives we lose, but we should also fix the lives that can be mended and heal the hearts that may yet be healed." (Pres. Thomas S. Monson, 10th anniversary of 9/11)

We are so abundantly blessed. We must do all we can to repent, strive for righteousness, show love for all of mankind. We need to pray, to worship God, and strengthen our families. If we are living in accordance to the laws and principles of God, we will have no need to fear.

I know that regardless of what happens in this world, God has a plan, even a mission, for each of us to fulfill. Should we die while on His errand, all we be well. We will be in His presence, and free from our earthly cares.Trust in the Lord. Rely on Him and pray always. Have hope in His plan and His mercy.

© Wendy 2013