 | I remember where I was sixteen years ago on this day. And I bet you know where you were as well. We all have a story to share and today many of us will tell others what we were doing on a Tuesday morning. Two generations ago President Franklin Delano Roosevelt declared December 7, 1941 “A date which will live in infamy.” For most of us September 11, 2001 will always hold a similar significance. |
Now, every 9/11 we look back. Many of us recall where we were and remember what the horrific events of that day felt like.
As for me, I felt fear. It was the fear of the unknown. Nobody knew those first few hours if the attacks were the start of something bigger or even a calm before the storm. The fear quickly gave way to anger. Later, that anger transitioned to resolve. Life changed that day. Not just for me but all of us. No day has ever been the same.
I grew up in Connecticut and spent a fair amount of time exploring New York City. Sporting events, Broadway shows, skating at Rockefeller Center, and multiple trips to the top of the Empire State Building are just a few of the things I’ve experienced. One thing I never did during my numerous visits was make it the top of the World Trade Center. Always figured I would one day, but never got the chance.
As for me, I felt fear. It was the fear of the unknown. Nobody knew those first few hours if the attacks were the start of something bigger or even a calm before the storm. The fear quickly gave way to anger. Later, that anger transitioned to resolve. Life changed that day. Not just for me but all of us. No day has ever been the same.
I grew up in Connecticut and spent a fair amount of time exploring New York City. Sporting events, Broadway shows, skating at Rockefeller Center, and multiple trips to the top of the Empire State Building are just a few of the things I’ve experienced. One thing I never did during my numerous visits was make it the top of the World Trade Center. Always figured I would one day, but never got the chance.
This summer while in the city I felt the need to visit the site. I needed to see where the attacks took place with my own eyes. To be honest, I had mixed emotions when I arrived. Due to time constraints, I immediately took the One World observatory tour and rode the elevator 1,250 feet into the sky. The ride from ground level to the 102nd floor was worth the price of admission. As I walked around the observation level, the view of NYC was truly spectacular. Then I saw them. The footprints of building one and two. I had chills. Surrounded by such an amazing view of the city I was reminded what occurred at that spot. After time to reflect and soak in the experience, I made my way down to the street level.
Next, I visited the twin reflecting pools. I ran my fingers over several names inscribed on the bronze parapets and thought about the immense loss that took place where I stood. Besides those who lost their lives on 9/11 I thought of the first responders who continue to deal with health issues due to their time at “The Pile.” Even now, sixteen years later first responders are dying at alarming rate from illnesses resulting from their time at the Trade Center.
I stood there and watched the water as it moved towards the center of the memorials. Closing my eyes, I listened to the people gathered around the memorial. The sun warmed my skin, and the words Never Forget came to mind.
We, as a people, must never forget the events that took place on 9/11. Time passes, wounds heal, but the memories must never fade. We must remember the sacrifices made and those which continue to occur. Our response and the resolve provided hope in our future. America is at our best when we are united. I can’t speak for anyone else, but as for me I remember and I’ll Never Forget.
We, as a people, must never forget the events that took place on 9/11. Time passes, wounds heal, but the memories must never fade. We must remember the sacrifices made and those which continue to occur. Our response and the resolve provided hope in our future. America is at our best when we are united. I can’t speak for anyone else, but as for me I remember and I’ll Never Forget.
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