Do you remember where you were on September 11, 2001? I do.
I just arrived in my World History class second period – it was my senior year of high school.
I was confused as to why the TV was on and lights were off. I knew it wasn’t planned. I sat at the far right of the room, the TV a small tube set on a cart was on the far left. I couldn’t see what was happening, events were shared by students, their voices telling those of us who could not see.
The room was full or horror and sadness and disbelief and fear.
I don’t remember third period.
Fourth period there wasn’t regular class. The teacher just told us to write whatever – we talked instead. At this point we knew the first tower fell but were questioning the second. Our teacher would not turn on a TV or radio.
The boy I had a crush on worried about his girlfriend who was in Chicago at the time.
I don’t remember the rest of the day. I just remember it didn’t feel real.
But it was real. That day changed my life and the lives of everyone else in this country. It changed history and politics and suddenly the word terrorism was everywhere. It seems that word hasn’t gone away since.
Here is to that day. Here are to all of the people whose lives were stolen, because lives lost seems too kind and misleading. Here is to all of their families who I hope have healed as best they can – and I wish them comfort and love on this day.
I don’t talk about it. I don’t usually write about it either. But I just wanted to say, I remember.
-DMW
