Remembering and Honoring: Myrtle Beach Reflects on 9/11
In the heart of Myrtle Beach, a deep moment of remembrance took place this past Thursday, marking the solemn anniversary of 9/11. It’s hard to believe it has been over two decades since that fateful day, yet here we are, honoring those we lost, including some from our very own Grand Strand community. As the sun rose and the waves crashed just right, you could feel a sense of unity and reflection spreading along the oceanfront.
A Community Coming Together
The City of Myrtle Beach, in collaboration with local churches, organized an incredible memorial choir event on the beach. The atmosphere was both touching and uplifting, showcasing the power of music and community. Singers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and Mount Olive AME Church joined voices to create a harmonious blend that echoed the ocean breeze. There was something special about listening to those familiar tunes while standing by the water; it felt like the ocean itself was joining in the tribute.
Voices of Leadership
City leaders were also on hand to share their heartfelt remarks and reflect on the day’s significance. Myrtle Beach Police Chief Amy Prock and Fire Chief Tom Gwyer delivered meaningful words that reminded everyone listening of the profound impact of community and resilience. It wasn’t just a mourning, but a celebration of life, love, and hope.
State Senator Luke Rankin took a moment to address the crowd, emphasizing the need to keep the spirit of love alive in our lives. “Our job today is to remember and honor and put hope, faith, and love in our own walks, in our own steps, and in our own relationships with our families, our friends, and our neighbors,” he said. His message resonated deeply, inviting everyone to let love reign in everything they do as a way to combat the darkness of the world.
Expressions of Art
Adding to the event’s emotional depth was a moving poem presented by Myrtle Beach Poet Laureate, Bo Bryan. His words painted vivid images of loss, remembrance, and hope, leaving many attendees with a feeling of connection and purpose. It’s in moments like these that we remember that art and community hold incredible power to heal and bring us together.
A Day for Reflection
As the choir sang and the leaders spoke, it wasn’t just about commemorating a tragic day from our history; it was about looking towards the future. The reminders of 9/11 teach us that we should never take a single day for granted. While we remember the lives lost, we also celebrate the strength of our community and the importance of supporting one another.
In this cozy coastal town, we live with our feet in the sand and our hearts open. Events like this memorial remind us of the bonds we share and the love that can rise from even the darkest of moments. As we continue to live our lives, may we always carry a piece of that hope and love forward, cherishing our family, friends, and neighbors just a little bit more.
So, if you find yourself strolling along the oceanfront in Myrtle Beach, take a moment to remember. Recapture those feelings of togetherness and appreciation for both the past and the future.
