As commentators have been saying on television for weeks, the lives of every person in the United States were forever changed by the events of September 11, 2001. Many of us have lost friends and relatives, and we all will hear about and think about the victims and the heroes of this enormous tragedy for years to come.

In our darkest hour, action is what many of us want. Some demand that it be in the form of retribution and retaliation, and others want to hear of rescue actions and reunions. I feel that, collectively, we want to contribute, to make a difference, to connect with our friends, our neighbors, our fellow citizens. I believe and know that we can. I believe that where there is life, there is hope.

Many of the e-mails and calls I have been receiving are from people who want to know what my personal thoughts are regarding this devastating loss. I have many. Some are very human, the same kinds of things everyone else is thinking and feeling. Then there are the spiritual beliefs that guide me. I believe that this senseless loss, a snapshot of brutality and intentional cruelty, will only unite us and bring us closer spiritually, as a nation and as individuals.

Many want to know what we can do. Thousands upon thousands of people have donated time, money, blood and supplies, and they will continue to assist the rescue efforts. But there is one other thing that needs to be donated: prayers. I believe it is something we all should do, because it will make a difference. I believe it is the secret weapon that we all posses. With it, we can create an army that can overcome any individual, gang or group, or even an entire country of terrorists.

For years, people have asked me about God. I have kept my personal religious beliefs private and used the analogy that my work is a portrait painted of energy, and each individual's religious choice constructs the frame. I can tell you my framework is strong, and it is the one thing helping me to endure this horrific attack on the human spirit. Pray for the victims; pray for their families; pray for the rescue workers and their efforts to be successful. And pray for peace.

I believe that one day the World Trade Center will be rebuilt. I believe that the people who have lost their lives deserve that much. The memories their families carry with them forever will be a monument as great as the buildings that once stood. They will mark the gifts they shared with us while they were here. And I believe that the new buildings will be known as the World Peace Towers &emdash; a beacon of hope, remembrance, strength and peace. May each and every one of you take a moment to ask God to bless the victims, their families, and each other.

All the best,
John Edward