In Tribute and Hope

[I wrote this meditation for the observance of 9/11]

It is good,

  right, and fitting,

For so many reasons,

That we remember,  

  especially remember,

Those who died

  and the families who suffered

  and suffer still;

To say aloud the names,

To tell the stories,

To speak our grief,

And then to be silent

  in respect and in reflection;

Feeling varied emotions

And seeking meanings

  alone and together.

And when we have remembered–

  paid our respects –

Promising not to forget,

We return to embrace

All that is excellent

 – true, beautiful good –

That we might live,

Not just once again,

But more fully

– in wisdom, courage, and compassion –

Vowing that we shall make our world

  a better place

In Tribute and in Hope.