It has been more than four years since we were all shocked and saddened by the tragic events that occured on September 11th, 2001. Each one of us can remember exactly where we were and what we were doing when we first heard about the attacks. Not a day goes by when we don't hear something on the news relating to "9-11" and the pain it has caused. As a country, we have become stronger. As individuals, we have all become more patriotic and aware of the fact that life is fragile and that no matter what, everything can change in the blink of an eye.We have also resolved as a country and as a people to never ever forget, and to cherish the freedom and independence that we enjoy every day, and to show our friends and families how much we love them every chance we get.
I would like to offer my thoughts and prayers for the families of the victims of the 9-11 tragedy in New York, Washington, and Pennslyvania. Office Workers, Firemen, Rescue Workers, Policemen, Emergency Medical Technicians, and Ordinary Citizens. "Regular" people like you and me. This is my simple tribute to the people who lost so much that day.
I had visited the Trade Center on business just a few weeks before the tragedy. I am familiar with the area, now known as "Ground Zero". I can't imagine the devastation and destruction caused by the disaster, since the buildings were so huge and close together. There is no other city like New York City. There are no people in the world like the people who live and work there.
The images that struck me the most during the TV coverage were the images of the rescue workers, who went right into the towers to save other peoples' lives and search for survivors.
Here are some photos and some links related to the disaster, including some letters that were forwarded to me. They were written by some of the people who made it out safely.
Chilling accounts.
Please take a moment to keep them all in your thoughts.
Do something good for someone else today. Give Blood. Volunteer your time and money to legitimate charities. Give everyone a smile. Stay optimistic. Proudly display the American Flag - at home - at work - as you travel. Perform a "Random Act of Kindness". Buy a plane ticket. It will build confidence in our freedom to move about without fear. Speak positively about our country. Smile at people who wave the flag. When your flag is worn out, replace it. Make a purchase that you've been postponing. Leave your savings alone. Stand behind our President and leave politics out of it. Be there for your kids, your family and friends. Be kind. Don't be afraid. Give someone a hug today, because you never know. You just never know...
I visited the Trade Center less than 3 weeks before the tragedy.
I'm lucky I wasn't there that day. Many people were not as lucky.
