Jackson resident thanks Westlake for Sept. 11 service & for hope
On Sept. 11, I had the opportunity to attend a 9/11 memorial service at the Westlake adult community in Jackson. They were the only ones to offer a 9/11 service in the entire Howell, Lakewood and Jackson area that I was aware of. This may not mean much to most people but to me it meant the world.

I was not doing well when I arrived due to the solemnity of the day, but after settling in and speaking to the many residents who welcomed me, I started to feel a bit different. The residents and guests sang along with the singer of "The Star-Spangled Banner" as well as "God Bless America." This is something I have not seen or heard in a very, very long time.

They then prayed with a pastor, rabbi and priest. All of them were silent when needed and applauded when they saw fit. It did not matter what the venue was, all these residents were a group of one, united and not letting anything get in the way of this day. Never in my life have I felt so at home, at ease and on a day when I would like nothing more than to forget. But then again, I was in the company of what is still known as part of the greatest generation.

I may have lost my brother, Joseph, on 9/11/01, but the people of Westlake gave me back something I thought I had lost, and that was hope. I truly cannot express in words my gratitude and thanks for the thoughtfulness and consideration shown to me this day in their home. After the ceremony they provided coffee, cake, tea and cookies to all.

Thank you, Westlake, for showing the community and me that you truly care and, most importantly, that you remember.

Michael Reina

Jackson