Many of us know exactly where we were on this day seventeen years ago. We know who we were with and what we were doing. We watched on TV as the unthinkable happened and we likely had mixed emotions as the day unfolded.

Today we remember those who bravely ran into the buildings to help strangers. We remember all of those who volunteered to help in the wreckage afterwards. We remember all of those who did not make it home on the evening of September 11, 2001.

As we remember what 9/11 was and how it affected all of us, may we also take stock today of what we have and be grateful for it. While we remember those who helped strangers and ran into burning buildings, might we also help others in some small way. What better way to remember those who gave everything than by giving back in our own community?

So, today and all week, we encourage everyone to practice Sharing Smiles. Buy someone’s coffee while in line at the drive-through. Help someone cross the street. Carry someone’s groceries. More than anything else today, let’s practice kindness and love.

After all, isn't that what gets us though? Kindness, Love and Sharing Smiles.