Everyone remembers where they were when they learned of the attacks on our country on September 11, 2001. And each of us, with heavy hearts, remember the sorrow and heartache we felt that day as the events unfolded and reality set in.
But our gloom and ache pale in comparison to those that lost a loved one on this horrific day. By digging a little deeper and identifying with the lives of those that perished, their memory lives on and the desensitization we feel rubs away a little and is replaced with knowledge, love, compassion, and life. Of course, we will remember the horrible day that will forever be imprinted in our country’s history, but in this moment I chose to remember a woman whose life was taken from us, a woman who lived a life that shouldn’t be forgotten!
Diana Borrero de Padro, born in Puerto Rico, worked in the Pentagon as a U.S. Army accountant for the office of the Secretary of the Army. She and her family lived in Woodbridge, VA for nine years, the longest stretch of time she and her husband, Jose, and 2 sons, Jose and Juan, lived in a single location.
Diana was a traveler! She traveled often for work. And as to collect mementos from her trips, she would always bring home a kitchen magnet that would proudly be displayed on her fridge. Oh, to see the magnets that she acquired and hear the stories she had from her adventures!
She was filled with energy and was very outgoing. I can see her as the woman that can bring people out of their shells.
Diana was a wife that was loved deeply by her husband. He called her daily upon his arrival at work, just to hear her laugh. What a precious and everlasting love for a husband to call for no other reason than to hear the sweet sound of his beloved’s giggle!
I wish there was more information about this 55-year old wife and mother to be found on the internet and read here. Just from what I found, I could easily see that this was a woman I would have loved to have known. But the intimate details of her life perhaps are better left for her family; their memories only to be shared and enjoyed. A treasure to be found within them.
To remember and honor the life of Diana, I plan to hang a new magnet in my kitchen tomorrow, the 8thanniversary of this life lost. I pray it will serve as a reminder to pray for the Padro family, asking our Heavenly Father to be their comfort, their joy, and their healing in this tragedy, as well as to recall to their minds the happiness she brought to their lives and the love they shared together. And as you read this small tribute to Diana’s memory, I ask that you take a moment to pray for her family in this way, also.
