It's been eight years since we first heard about the 9/11 tragedy. My reaction to the event this year is quite different than even the anniversary last year. I am not as devastated by remembering what happened. I have reason to feel devastated since I lost one of my life-long friends. I am moving forward after lots and lots of healing.
Since I am a minister, I celebrate the anniversary in a way that promotes peace...what my friend who died ultimately desired for the planet. I celebrate our community's annual memorial communion service. For, celebrating the life (and death) of Jesus is profoundly healing on many levels. Sharing in the body of Christ and remembering loved ones is the way the I remember September 11th.
The body of Christ is not just the physical body of the person who lived two thousand years ago. The body of Christ is all of us on the planet no matter what our faith tradition preaches or teaches. It is God who lives within us that connects us in ways we can only begin to understand. When people leave this planet...they are leaving a body of Christ...which is why we mourn. When so many people left the planet on 9/11 it's no wonder its effects were felt the world over. It is important to remember the life of the people who are no longer present with us here on the planet. It is important to celebrate them in ways that will help heal the planet and the large gap in our connections.
The Alicia Titus Memorial Peace Fund at Urbana University is one way to help heal the planet. During the memorial communion service, we take a collection and the donations are dedicated to this peace fund.
I remember the times I was lucky enough to spend with Alicia (Lish) and am truly blessed for knowing her. She was one of the many angels who helped me become the person I am today. I am sorry that she is no longer with us, but yet...her legacy of desiring peace is something that lives on.
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