Regardless of what you think of actions taken and paths chosen since Sept. 11, 2001, there is no denying the magnitude, the historical tipping point, of what transpired that day.

How one chooses to remember that horrible day of commandeered passenger jets being flown into buildings in New York and Washington, D.C. can be a separate decision from how one chooses to remember the ramifications of that day.

Around the country, Americans, either in groups or as individuals, relived the 9/11 tragedies. Some watched the archived news coverage on TV, some went down to their local street corner and waved American flags, some participated in ceremonies to remember those who died in the buildings and on the planes. Some honored those thrown on to the field of battle, those who have and are serving and those who have died serving.

Others chose to serve in their own way, in their own communities.

Various outlets for such service have been suggested, including:

• Giving a pint of blood. In this area, the easiest way to donate, or become a regular donor, is to make an appointment with the Puget Sound Blood Center by calling 1-800-398-7888 or go to www.psbc.org.

• Donating used clothing or other usable items to an appropriate charity.

• Helping build homes through Habitat for Humanity.

• Participating in National Disaster Preparedness Month. You can learn more on how to participate at www.redcross.org.

Sept. 11 was a day that changed America and, for better or worse, set the country and its citizens on a new course.

Marking that moment in history is important and appropriate. But just as the impacts of those planes still reverberate in the world, think about making your actions to honor and remember last as long.