For me it's still hard to believe that 16 years have passed since that horrific day on September 11th, 2001. This was a day that fundamentally changed all of our lives. And although on 9/11 we knew our lives had changed probably forever, we at that time really didn't yet really know how much they would change.
The memories of one of the darkest days in American history are today so crystal clear in my mind's eye. It still seems like yesterday that we were witnessing the events of September 11, 2001 unfold. I still remember the first shock, I still remember the fear that came with not being able to reach friends and family by phone (especially those who worked in or near the Twin Towers). I still remember getting through the day without a lot of emotion and suddenly around 6:00 pm starting to weep. Yet here we are, 16 years later, marking another anniversary of that tragic day. It feels like yesterday. And I think it will always feel like yesterday to me.
No doubt that one day 9/11 will become "ancient" history to future generations (already some 20% of Americans have no memory of that day). But so long as those of us who lived through that day are around, WE MUST NEVER FORGET! And I for one know, I could never forget!
New York City is my "home town" and I knew the Twin Towers well, having often entered them for business meetings when I was still working in the corporate world. We celebrated my mother's 70th birthday there, as well, in 1989. We had flown in from Paris and totally surprised her. It was such a fun and happy evening never to be forgotten.
To those many who lost a loved one that day, my heart and prayers continue to go out to you. I know you suffered losses that can never be replaced. Today, on the 16th anniversary of 9/11, let's take a moment to remember all the heroes of that day -- both those who perished and those who survived. And as we look back, today is also a good day to take a moment today to reflect on the things that are most important in our lives and to remember that through tragedy we have the opportunity to rise even stronger.
LET US NEVER FORGET
"September 11 is one of our worst days, but it brought out the best in us. It unified us as a country and showed our charitable instincts and reminded us of what we stood for and stand for."
Senator Lamar Alexander
"September 11th impressed upon us that life is a precious gift... and I think we all have a duty to devote at least a small portion of our daily lives to ensuring that neither American nor the the world ever forgets September 11th."
Senator Bill Frist
"9/11 - a day to remember that extraordinary heroes are often disguised as ordinary people and that spirit and soul are unbreakable."
Stacey Alcorn
Time is passing. Yet for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember the fire and ash, the last phone cals, the funerals of the children."
President George W. Bush
LET US NEVER FORGET
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