September 11, 2022

911 – the numbers for emergency services.

Also, the date was when one of the biggest emergencies ever faced by a western nation took place. It is a day that will live on in the history books like the ides of March from ancient roman times, and Oct 14, 1066, when the battle of Hastings occurred and Britain was conquered by William. Or in more recent times, October 29, 1929, when the stock market crashed, and December 7, 1941, when Japan bombed Pearl Harbour.

All dates that live on in the history books.

But September 11 was always a special date for me. It was my dad’s birthday. Sadly he lost part of the joy on his birthday when the twin towers fell. 

Now anyone born on that date twenty-one years ago is of legal drinking age anywhere in North America. 

This year September 11, 2022, had a different meaning for my wife and a number of her friends it was a day we said goodbye to Phil Flett. Exactly one year earlier Phil succumbed to the dreaded pandemic that swept across the globe in early 2020. It was a sad day, yet at the same time many laughs were had, Phil would have loved the party thrown in his honour.

Phil was a man who was larger than life. I never really knew him but the few times we met he made an impression on me. Part of me felt he was arrogant and abrasive, but my wife liked him so he must have some redeeming qualities.

This 911 I was fortunate enough to attend his celebration of life and get a glimpse of the impact he had on so many others. Funny enough he was called an asshole more than once. Sometimes the world just needs an asshole, especially a lovable one.

And he was loved by many many people. If I get half the amount of people to attend my celebration of life I will be doing something right. 

The man had charisma and charm, but he also had something else that shone through it all. He had a huge heart.

September 11, 2021, was the date the world lost a man who made a difference in a lot of lives. Strange how certain days stand out for people. Phil was the kind of guy who stood out from the rest. It may have been appropriate that he passed on such a significant day for the world. 

I know September 11, 1930, was a significant day as well. It was the day my dad entered this world. Three 911 each important in their ways. 

To everyone that lost a loved one on that infamous day twenty-one years ago, you have my deepest sympathy. To my friends that lost Phil one year ago, it was a pleasure to share yesterday and celebrate his life. His love lives on in all of you.

September 11…

Until we meet again…