My Little Piece of Canada!

Our deepest sympathies to the people, families and countries forever changed by the tragic terrorist attacks in the United States. The absolute horror of what has been done leaves me, literally, speechless.

The front of the Toronto Sun says it all.

There are heroes among us.

As the shock we felt at the tragic terrorist acts in the United States turns to anger, and even fear, that fact begins to come home. As the smoke clears and Americans face the task of clearing away rubble and identifying those lost, we see the heroes at work and give thanks.

We should be thanking our heroes too.

The police officers that have been fortunate enough not to have to answer a call such as their brothers in blue were sent to. The fire fighters that are prepared to risk their lives to save others, even though they have not faced the scope of the disaster south of the border.

The paramedics who are trained to deal with the worst of injuries, even though they have never had to deal with the stunning potential their counterparts must. The emergency room personnel who are ready for the influx of patients they wish with all their hearts will never have to arrive.

The security officers who search people and vehicles to ensure the safety of those in their care.

The emergency co-ordinators and government officials at every level who know they must remain calm no matter what anything, even terrorists, throws at them in order to keep their people calm.

The military personnel, ready and able to spring to our defence wherever and whenever they are needed.

All of these people are heroes, unsung only because they have only been called upon in small capacities. Yet they are prepared to do their duty, should they be called upon.

Take the time, in your life sometime in the near future, to thank at least one of these people. If they'll let you, give them a hug, or shake their hand. Let them know you feel safer with the knowledge that they are near.

Because they are our heroes.

Copywrite:Kelly Young, Sept. 16, 2001