First National Day of Service and Remebrance

In his continued efforts to raise awareness and set the pace for community and service, President Obama has declared 9/11 the first National Day of Service and Remembrance. What better way to bring meaning and a higher purpose to our nation's worst tragedy.

Several organization are behind the event, including ServiceNation, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, the Corporation for National and Community Service, New York Cares and MyGoodDeed, a nonprofit started by friends and family of 9/11 victims. According to the event's official site, 911DayofService, their mission is to honor those who rose to service in response to the attacks by doing a good deed or volunteer activity. They hope in time that this day will create a long lasting and progressive legacy – "annually rekindling the spirit of service, tolerance, and compassion that unified America and the world in the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks."

As a New Yorker, I recall the overwhelming sense of unity in the wake of September 11, 2001, a particular energy heretofore never experienced – by me at least – on the jaded island of Manhattan. There was an unmistakable sense of urgency and genuine desire to help. People were quick to donate blood or bring food and dry clean socks to rescue workers. And then there was the more subtle camaraderie, a kind glance or a shared look of reassurance, "We are going to be OK. We will get through this together." But then as these things often do, once the crisis subsides, we feel less compelled to step up and lend a hand. It's harder to make it to the blood bank just because it’s the right thing to do.I know I surely don't.

But this may be a ripe opportunity to bring goodness into our everyday consciousness. It would be comforting and inspiring to know that we think of others, not only in times of disaster, but as a way of life.  Participate in whatever way choose, the options are seemingly endless. I like the notion that by rallying to do for others and our country on 9/11, those who gave their lives, might not have done so in vain.

What will your contribution be? We, here at Tonic, would love to know.