Forget, may we not,
how we cared for our fellows
hopeful aftermath
That’s a haiku I wrote this weekend in honor of 20th anniversary of September 11th. The catchphrase adopted by many is “never forget” and I was considering what it is important that we remember when we reflect on that horrific day.
Sadly many brave souls, firefighters, EMTs and such, lost their lives that day, in addition to the civilians who worked or did business in the towers. In that moment, America (and arguably the world) mourned together, but also rose to the task of helping all the victims, those hurt and those left behind.
As Mr. Rogers famously advised, we also “looked for the helpers,” and they indeed showed up, in force. The way that citizens rushed to help in any way they could made an impression never to be forgotten.
My friend Olivia Mead (@ladyboss_olivia) from NCSA was so profoundly affected that she would go on to found Yoga for First Responders (@yogaforfirstresponders), training thousands of EMTs, firefighters, etc. in skills to help cope with the stress, trauma, and demands of their jobs as well as instructing yoga teachers in how to do the same.
I found this article featuring ways we can contribute to our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic particularly inspiring and practical as we look back on that day and forward into how we can help now.
I believe that we are called to remember the preciousness and uncertainty of our time on Earth. We owe it to ourselves to do purposeful, passionate work (whether that takes the form of paid work in our career or job or the way we serve in our personal lives), to appreciate what we have, move joyfully, love ourselves and one another.
For me, this includes sharing dance and yoga and supporting students and clients in living extraordinary and fulfilled lives. What does it mean to you?
Stay tuned on my YouTube Channel and Blog for more about living a luscious life!!
Blythe Stephens, MFA, Bliss Catalyzing Dance Educator & Coach
she/her or they/them
Founder of A Blythe Coach: move through life with balance, grace, & power
