09/11/2021
Saturdays here typically have a light, fun feeling to them. Our members stagger in and usually catch up on each others weekend plans or make small talk about the workout on the white board and how hard it’s going to be. Today was different. At 8:30AM sharp everyone in the building stood quiet, staring at the big flag hanging in the front of the room and reflected as the national anthem played. At 8:35AM Coach Ernie did something I don’t think I’ve ever seen happen in a CrossFit gym, he lead an open dialogue. “Where were you that day and what do you remember?” For ten minutes people spoke on their thoughts and memories of that day. From someone who was 5 years old that day I had very little perspective to offer. I sat quiet and listened. Members and dear friends that are veterans and first responders shared with us what that day was like for them and graciously let us into their world for a few minutes. One of the more memorable and sobering moments I’ve ever had inside the four walls of a gym. At 8:46AM (the exact time the north tower was struck by the first plane 20 years ago) they started a workout that was much more meaningful than most we’ve ever done and a little over an hour later they all drug themselves across the finish line, together. Today is not about us. If anything, it’s a stern reminder that this life is fragile and unfair at times but it becomes much more bearable the more we love and lean on one another. Something, I would assume all of us wish we took the time to do just a little bit more. If there is one way to honor the memory of all the Americans we lost 20 years ago it is through open dialogue, a strong sense of community and a deep respect for one another’s independent values. To everyone that has put this country before their own well-being or their own comforts, we thank you, we owe you a debt of much more than just gratitude and we are thinking about you today.