September 11, 2011

Ten years ago, America was rattled. Fathers, sisters, brothers, mothers, sons, daughters, and friends were killed. Let us be thankful for what we have in our lives. And for who we have. Whether we realize it or not, our lives are based on relationships. Savor those relationships. Cherish the people you love. Forgive those who have hurt us. Pray for people all around the world who experience heartache daily.

My husband should know that he makes me laugh constantly. That his goofiness and his optimism keep me going every day. And that marrying him is the single most perfect decision I have ever made.

My sister should know that she has been my best friend since the day she was born. That although she is younger than me, I have always looked up to her. And that she is going to be an amazing wife and mother. 

My dad should know that the example he set for me growing up is what has shaped my testimony of the gospel. That his efforts to spend quality time with me are what really made the difference in creating our relationship. And that his complete acceptance of Ed into the Huntington family means the world to me. 

My mom should know that I could not have survived being a teenager without her. That the support she has for her kids is unparalleled. And that she has created a relationship with me that is the epitome of what a mother-daughter relationship was meant to be. 

My brother should know that I absolutely love spending time with him. That he and Amy's friendship to Ed and I our first year marriage helped me through the hard times of life. And that I will smother his daughter Ellie with love for as long as I live. 

My in-laws, Karen and Norvel should know that I will be forever grateful to them for how they raised their son to be such an amazing man. That they have touched the lives of all those who have come in contact with. And that Ed and I strive to be as gracious and generous and they are one day.

My friends, new and old should know that my sanity relies on you. That I owe so much to you all for putting up with my flakiness and drama. And that my friendships mean more to me than almost anything else. 

Ed is talking to his dad on the phone and I just heard him say that tragedy is not what should make us turn to God. He said we should be aware of His presence in our lives every day. That He is with us through the thick and the thin, the easy and the hard, but we forget this fact too often. 

I am so thankful for my relationships and for a Heavenly Father who is concerned with my life and my happiness. I hope that the families of the victims of 911 can be happy and that they are able to cherish their last moments with their loved ones. And I hope my loved ones know how much they mean to me.