Tonight's Viewing: Nine Innings From Ground Zero (2004)

This fall, with the distance of some time passing since 2001, I have felt ready to catch up with some excellent 9/11 documentaries.

Previously I watched STRANDED YANKS, a 2002 documentary about the experiences of thousands of travelers who were unexpectedly stranded in Canada when all planes were grounded on September 11th. Entire towns in Canada sprang into action to "adopt" the passengers and care for them during the days before air travel resumed.

Tonight I viewed NINE INNINGS FROM GROUND ZERO, which examines the role of baseball, and especially the World Series, as a healing experience in the wake of 9/11. It was very moving, especially for someone who loves baseball and its rich history. The film includes some wonderful footage of President Bush's trip to Yankee Stadium to throw out the first pitch during the World Series.

Each of these documentaries is a stirring reminder that although there is evil in this world, the world is also filled with countless caring people who are willing to reach out a hand to those in need.