Monday, September 11, 2006

9/11 Impacts Parents Still

As I dropped my daughter off at nursery school today, wearing an American flag dress, I wondered what parents felt like 5 years ago. I didn't have children then so it's hard for me to imagine. Instead, I found myself holding on to my little one a bit longer today. Her teachers quickly picked up on what was going on. My one-year-old was ready to play but mom was holding on in case there was another terrorist attack on the 9/11/01 anniversary. I wanted that image of my girl smiling to remain in my memory... just in case. My behaviour begs the question: should you hold on longer every day?

You just never know.

But my child doesn't know either. And so I'll go on like many parents who realize what happened five years ago and how different our lives could be if something tragic happened today, drastically changing our family. But I'll force the tears back and remember that I live by example and my daughter would rather play with friends than hide inside. We've got big plans tomorrow to attend MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and the playgroup for the children. The afternoon will unveil mommy & baby time just for us. At dinner, my toddler will throw peas on the floor and I'll grit my teeth in frustration. And then I will remember that just the day before I wondered how it would be not to have that time with her. So I'll be more patient and I'll smile in thankfulness for all that we have and all that our soldiers have given us. Perhaps this is one way to pay respects to those who lost their lives on 9/11/01 when you have a child that can't possibly understand. Have you forgotten? No, I doubt you have. Showing your children how to truly live life to its fullest is evidence of that.

Until the next nap time...