Depoll.com

It's hard to believe it's been 7 years since the events of September 11.  That day truly changed the way I look at the world.

I'm sure for some people it feels like ancient history, but to me, it's still fresh in my memory.  It still stuns me that 9/11 happened two weeks into my freshman year of High School.  So much has changed in my life since then.  But I don't really want to recount my experiences from that day -- instead, I'd like to share what today means to me.

To me, 9/11 is a day to remember the innocence of those who lost their lives in that devastating attack and the heroism of those who gave their lives in service to their community and country.  They were our brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends, neighbors, and loved ones, and their memory and the memory of that day should never be forgotten.

Moreover, 9/11 is a day to remember and honor other heroes in our lives.  There were those who fought and survived the attacks.  There were also our families and friends and neighbors who comforted each other through the trauma that we experienced.  It was difficult, but heroic, for each of us to move on from that day, but I'm proud of the way we came together to love and support one another, and I've never been prouder to be an American.

I'd like to send a message to the men and women in military: thank you for your service.  You brave men and women make our lives possible, and every day you show us the kind of courage and selflessness that the rest of us aspire to.  You deserve all the support and respect we can muster.  Today, as last year, my thoughts are with you.  You are all true American heroes.

We must all remember the lessons of 9/11.  From them, and the memories and presence of our personal heroes, we can find strength and goodness in the world.

Finally, to those whose lives were taken 7 years ago today: rest in peace.

Labels: family, friends, Opinion, Personal