Lisa Conway – FLORIDA TODAY

Remembering 9-11

Today is Patriot Day. On September 11th, 2001, America was attacked and our nation was forever changed. Many of us feel the importance of pausing to reflect on the events of that difficult day. Finding meaningful ways to honor the anniversary does not have to be complicated—small, personal gestures can carry deep significance.

One simple way is to observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center. We can do this at home, with neighbors, or in a group setting. This quiet reflection honors those who lost their lives and the first responders who bravely rushed in to help.

Many communities hold memorial services or flag ceremonies that seniors can attend in person or watch online. Participating in these gatherings can help foster a sense of unity and reminds us that we are not alone in our remembrance.

In Brevard, several events and gatherings are planned.

  • Palm Bay: Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony – 10 AM, Sacrifice Park, adjacent City Hall.
  • Merritt Island: 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony — 6 PM, Brevard Veterans Memorial Center
  • Viera: Visit the Avenue Viera World Trade Center Memorial, across from AMC Theatres, 10 AM to 7 PM
  • Cape Canaveral National Cemetery — Volunteers will help clean headstones and beautify the grounds in tribute to our military, veterans, first responders, and their families. Sign up at carrytheload.org

For those who prefer a personal activity, lighting a candle, displaying a flag, or writing a note of gratitude to local firefighters, police, or veterans can be powerful. You may want to share your own memories of that day with family or friends, especially younger generations who may not have lived through it. These conversations preserve history and provide a personal connection to the nation’s story. When displaying your flag, remember that it is flown at half-staff on Patriot Day.

Another meaningful gesture is to perform an act of kindness or service in honor of the day. Whether it’s donating to a charity, helping a neighbor, or volunteering time, acts of service echo the resilience and compassion that defined the aftermath of 9/11.

Many people find peace in spiritual reflection or prayer services, if that aligns with your beliefs. Coming together in faith communities often provides comfort and strength.

By observing moments of silence, attending memorials, performing acts of kindness, or sharing stories, we can all keep the memory of 9/11 alive in ways that feel both personal and healing. These small but heartfelt gestures ensure that the sacrifices made—and the unity we felt—are never forgotten.

 

Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and Certified Care Manager for One Senior Place Care Management, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’ One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.