All day the news is reflective and somber. It is, after all, the day so many people senselessly lost their lives to terrorism. After sharing moments of silence this morning... I was notified of a reason to smile and rejoice today.

Those who lost their lives on that fate 9/11 6 years ago left children and families that now reflect but must also embrace and rejoice in life in order to move on. I watched earlier today the son of one of the victims. He has embraced life and is empowering others coping with sudden loss (not just 9/11 victim families) to grow and achieve their dreams. His non-profit organization is called holdthedoor.com.

I reflect on all those who coping with sudden loss. I also remember my own father who working one day and passed that night from an unannounced heart attack. Not an act of terrorism yet a sudden personal attack affecting my family's world. Sudden loss quietly affects many people so organizations like "holdthedoor.com" are a blessing.

Truly we should all "hold the door open for someone else". Helping others helps ourselves and I believe that is exactly what Ronald Fazio Jr has discovered through his non profit organization  created in the memory of his father who lost his life that tragic day. Truly Ronald Fazio Sr was a great man that helped shape this young man who is now empowering others with positive resources and opportunities. I reflect on this father and son.

Today mother and child are happy and healthy. Today my son holds his new born son. Their future is uncertain yet today is full of sunshine and hope. I pray that God blesses this new family with happiness.

Today I reflect and rejoice.

Shine Your Star!

Marie