I Am Alive

I don't like this date. Ever since the 9/11, I have a hard time with today. I hate that it went from being just a day on a calendar to a date that will always linger in my memory. I hate that on every lovely, clear blue, sunny day that is the first after a long, humid summer, I remember that day. But at the same time, 9/11 reminds me of how precious life is. It reminds me of how lucky I am to have the life I do. I am infinitely grateful for all that I have in my life, and I'll bet that's not something the terrorists counted on my realizing as a result of their despicable behavior.

Every year, rather than focus solely on all we lost seven years ago today, I try to fill myself with new resolve. Along those lines, I thought I'd share these words, which come from the Opening Ceremonies at the 3-Day Walk.

I am alive.
I am a survivor.
I am a walker.
I am crew.
I am old.
I am young.
I am a woman.
I am a man.
I am the end of breast cancer.
I am alive.

I am the voice of audacity in the face of apathy.
I am the spirit of bravery in a world of caution.
I am a commitment to action in the face of neutrality.
And I am tired of waiting for others to act.
I am alive.

I am tired of comfort when so many suffer.
I am tired of half measures when so many are taken whole before their time.
I am tired of being patient.
I am tired of being held back from all my magnificence and all my power.
I am alive.

I am not asleep.
I am not deceased.
I am not defeated.
I am not retreating.
I am the author of my life.
I am the author of tomorrow.
I am the future and I am alive.

This morning.
With all my brothers and sisters.
With all our dedication,
In all our mightiness,
I will not be beaten.
To all those who suffer,
To all those in pain,
I say that I am here.
I am walking.
I am for you.
I am with you.
And I am alive.