Religious extremists smashed airplanes into the tallest buildings in New York on this day 8 years ago. 2,993 people died as the direct result of a conscious and planned actions. That is an estimated number.

These attacks precursed wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. More people died as the direct result of conscious, planned actions. 100 000 - 250 000 people in Iraq. In Afghanistan 50 000 - 100 000 people. Again, estimated numbers.

I can see the WTC memorial from my bedroom window at night. It fills me with a terrible sadness.

Those responsible for these deaths, each one a human being, loved or unloved, did it on purpose. They knew what they were doing and then they went ahead and did it in anyways.

To the dead, I send prayer. To those they left behind, in anger, in fear, in sadness and loss, I send prayer. To the light, I send prayer. Prayer that you do not make the same kinds of decisions.