War veterans sing of the days when they would sing and dance. They would live life. They’d fight and never lose, for they were young and sure to have their way.

Those were the days, and they were only just two years ago.

Before Sept. 11, 2001.

On that horrific morning, we didn’t sing and dance. We didn’t feel young. We didn’t have our way.

Suddenly, we were fighting to survive. America was under attack. Our world, the entire world, changed.

Traveling is now complicated and burdensome, but it is that way to protect us. Our young people are going off to war in Iraq and Afghanistan and they are dying. The U.S. economy is weak. There is uncertainty in the Middle East.

Today, ceremonies across the country will mark the second anniversary of Sept. 11. It is a date on the calendar that, prior to the year 2001, would have noted a family member’s birthday or commemorated a special event. It is now officially called “9-11 Day,” a day when more than 3,000 people died because hatred has always existed and will always exist.

Today is not a day to shy away from reflection or involvement. It is a time to remember and respect those who were lost and offer sympathy and prayers for their families and loved ones.

The sad days will never come to an end, but eventually, we may be able to sing and dance a bit more.