Eleven years ago today, I was a junior at WHS sitting in my pyschology class. It started as a regular Tuesday during KIYI week which is always full of fun and excitement. My parents were gone to New York City with another couple who we showed horses with from Illinois. The men were taking in a medical conference and the women went along for shopping, socializing, and fun. A good family friend was staying with me since my brothers were at college and mom and dad were going to be gone most of the week. The night before I had spoken to them on the phone from the top of the Empire State Building. They were excited to go visit the World Trade Center the next morning and take in some sight seeing before attending the afternoon conference.
The morning of 9/11 is one I will never forget, as I’m sure the rest you will not either. As I sat in class at WHS and watched the horror and destruction on TV, I couldn’t help but wonder if my parents and our good family friends had gone to the WTC that morning and if they were ok. I sat with my classmate’s and the anxiety and nervousness increased as time went on….until the phone range directly into the classroom and our teacher told me it was for me. Bonnie, from the clinic was on the other line….not my parents! Well thankfully, Bonnie told me that due to the extreme busy phone lines, my Dad was only able to get a call into the clinic to let us know they were ok. Bonnie was calling the three of us kids and my parents’ parents to let everyone know they were ok. After we talked the night before, the men made a quick decision to stay at the conference in the morning and sight-see in the afternoon as the material in the morning was more applicable to them. ….Well that one decision most likely saved their lives as they would have been at the WTC that morning of 9/11. They were staying a few miles from the WTC and saw, heard, and smelled the destruction, however they were safe and sound in their hotel. They eventually had to rent a car and drive home from NYC as that was their only means of transportation due to the airlines and trains being shut down.
I know everyone has their own story and memory of 9/11, but every year, I can’t help but be very thankful and count my blessings to still have my parents with me and have our whole family intact. This story isn’t exactly nutrition related, however it is related to wellness as it’s important to have faith and purpose in our lives. We often get bombarded with thoughts of dieting and exercise, but in order to obtain true wellness, we need to think about the big picture and how each facet affects you…which does include, faith, family, friends, and purpose in life. Make the most of each day as you don’t know when it will be your last and make sure you tell your loved ones you care about them. It’s a day to take time to thank our service members and appreciate our freedom. And, as you examine your goals, be sure to think about your purpose and what is driving you to be healthy. For many of us, it’s our family …and today I have a lot to be thankful for!
These pictures are from my wedding 2 years ago (thanks to Kari Mertz Photography!). We now have two more little ones in the family, but I am blessed to have them all and today, I will be counting my blessings!
-Kelsey
