“Do to others as you would like them to do to you." ~ Luke 6:31
When the U.S. closed its airspace
soon after the attacks of 911, 38 planes carrying unexpected visitors from 95
countries, landed in rural Newfoundland. But for the residents of Gander, where
travelers almost outnumbered the locals, making room for nearly 7,000 guests,
along with 11 dogs, 9 cats, and 2 Bonobo apes seemed to be part of their
genetic code.
All nonessential businesses and schools closed, allowing
everyone in the community to help where needed. Schools, churches, government
centers, and legion halls were converted into makeshift dormitories.
People spontaneously offered up
spare rooms and hot showers in their homes, lent their cars and cell phones to complete
strangers. Donations of so much food arrived that it had to be stored at the
Community Centre’s ice rink. They even tracked down kosher food for Jewish
passengers.
Local bakeries stayed open 24/7 to
make fresh bread for the guests. Local pharmacists offered free prescriptions
for those who needed refills and nicotine patches for smokers distressed by the
airlines’ no-smoking mandates. Kids helped deliver food, clean sheets, and hygiene
supplies. Some gave up their toys and games. Veterinarians cared for the
animals left on board the planes.
The Newfoundlanders helped take everyone’s minds off of the
horrifying attacks by providing entertainment to their guests, as well. They
orchestrated tours of the town, dinners featuring local cuisine of stewed
moose, bowling matches, and live concerts by regional artists.
More importantly, the kindness shown by the residents of
Gander offered compassion and hope when it was needed most. That, there are
places in the world where people can come together and respect and care for one
another — regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation.
Five days later the 38 planes started departing the small
rural community. The “plane people” did not forget their time in Canada once
they arrived at their final destinations.
Passengers kept in touch with one another and their
Newfoundland hosts by phone, made websites dedicated to their individual
flights, and even traveled back to Gander for anniversaries of the attacks.
The passengers and crew of Delta Flight 15 created a
scholarship fund for students in the Gander area. In the more than 20 years
since 9/11, the fund raised over $1.5 million and helped 200 local students
obtain a college education.
The horrors of 911 are behind us, but hatred remains. We
need to be constantly reminded that good people still exist in this world - over
9,000 of them live in Gander, Newfoundland.
Lord Almighty, make me a channel of your
peace. Where there is hatred, let me bring Your love; where there is injury, Your
healing power, and where there’s doubt, true faith in You.” (Attributed to St. Francis of Assisi)
