(In Remembrance, November 2001)
Eight weeks after the tragic events of September 11th, I am still haunted by the memories of fleeing for my life. I still count my blessings that I was one of the more fortunate souls who found their way to safety on that fateful morning when New York City was changed forever. Undoubtedly, that morning touched us all as we say a prayer for our friends, loved ones, strangers, neighbors and local heroes - each of whom has left a special impression in our hearts.
It was a day marked by horrific violence and amazing triumph. It was a crime against humanity, personal freedom and the American spirit, but in the darkest hour, we answered back with our own humanity and resolve. It was and remains to be the kind of human spirit that has given us the strength to move forward. In our hopes for a small but gradual return to normalcy, we have redefined and rediscovered what it is to be an American. It is not found in solely asserting our military prowess abroad, nor is it revealed in simply displaying our stars and stripes.
We have to ask ourselves the questions we are all wondering - when will this heightened sense of patriotism dim? When will we begin to forget the fallen in our pursuit of the guilty? When will we realize that the greatest honor we can bring to our country is ensuring that our loved ones have not died in vain? When we will spread American pride for what it should be - a hallmark for humanity?
It has to begin today and in each of us. We must start with honoring the fallen - by striving to be the best people we can be and in appreciating those who are still with us and continue to touch our lives in countless ways. We have to adopt a new awareness, a renewed solidarity, a faith in humanity and a voice for peace. As much as memories may haunt us within, memories also remind us of our convictions and the work that must be done.
