Most adult-aged people have a 9/11 story. If you will indulge me, I’ll share mine. I was on my way to work and heard radio deejays confused but laughing at the news that a plane flew into the World Trade Center. I won’t repeat what they thought happened, but the reality was definitely much worse. When I got to my (still relatively new) job, I quickly asked if we had a TV. Why? My coworkers knew nothing. We found the only one in the building and spent the rest of the day shifting between calling people and sitting in front of the TV. I can still see a plane flying into the second tower live on the screen. Worse, I remember the people jumping from the skyscrapers – men in white shirts and suits, women in printed blouses and dress shoes. A coworker asked why they were jumping instead of waiting for help. I knew. I couldn’t say the words out loud.

Part of me is sad for today’s youth, because they don’t know how it felt to come together like we did in the days following 9/11. The other part of me hopes they never experience anything like this. However, it is so important to remember and keep the lives of those who perished in our minds each 9/11. Every first responder reporting for duty knew they were doing the job they hoped they would never have to perform. This is a day they will never forget.

In sort of a segue, I wanted to encourage you to visit Quilts of Valor. Their website is https://www.qovf.org/. Quilts are given to veterans and must adhere to a strict set of guidelines. Although I have friends who have participated, I have not yet made a Quilt of Valor. I hope to in the next few years.

If you have thought about making a any type of quilt for someone, don’t wait. Don’t be intimidated with your skill level. When I make a quilt, my first thoughts are usually how many mistakes I made. But I can remember each one. And it makes me better every time. To your recipients, they only remember that you cared and put your heart into each cut of the fabric, stitch of the seam, and press of the iron. Show some love and get quilting!