Should I go or not go? It was almost noon by the time I finally decided to make the two-and-a-half-hour drive. I packed an overnight bag (just in case), loaded it in the backseat, and pulled out onto the interstate. Why not? I had an extra day off over the Labor Day weekend.
It was stormy outside. The winds of change were, and are, blowing … life, hard decisions to make, choices. How can I be sure? I need peace.
I drove away from the storm. The sun was shining when I arrived. It wasn’t necessary to ring the door bell, but I did. She answered the door smiling and gave me a hug. Three plates were set at the table – an extra one for me. Chicken and green beans were neatly placed on the plate with plenty of other sides all around. We bowed our heads as the other one blessed the food. We ate. I talked. They listened then spoke, each offering advice, comments. Dessert was homemade cookies, and we talked more.
We moved into the living room and listened to music, beautiful worship music, – the entire CD – then talked more, such sweet communion. Then one placed a prayer cloth on my head, anointed me with oil, and they both prayed. I felt peace and decided to head home. I reached to open the car door and noticed my blue suitcase tucked tightly between the front and back seats – no need for it after all.
I placed a CD in the player, pushed the “repeat” button, and listened to a song that I meditated on frequently after 9/11 – those uncertain days, months, and years after our nation had been shaken to its core. Hard to believe it’s been twelve years now. This music and these words melted into my soul the entire drive home.
We, as a country, found a way to press on in 2001; and so can I today. I will never forget and, at the same time, am encouraged as I listen to the words in this song.
Excellent piece about finding “peace.”
And the best Labor Day and 9/11 tribute I’ve seen. –mm