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Ten years later

Reflections on September 11^th

It has been 10 years since America was shaken by the tragedy and devastation that sliced through this nation. The events of Sept. 11, 2001, dramatically changed not only the people of the United States, but people around the world.

Foreign to most Americans was the singular thought of an attack on American soil.  But all too quickly the reality of those almost indescribable moments of terror hit home as terrorism was no longer a headline about a country thousands of miles away.

Now Americans did indeed grasp, all too well, what “terror” was truly about as they grappled with what was no longer just a threat, but reality.  And Americans began to understand the sickening, helpless feeling that comes with tragedy, uncertainty and danger, and to understand that a wake-up call had been delivered decisively and painfully.

No longer was America untouchable, but rather, a member of a global community, which sadly included those willing to resort to unthinkable horrors to achieve their objectives.

Stories of the 3,000 people who died, the bravery and courage exhibited by emergency personnel and volunteers served to not only inspire the country, but to remind all of us, and the world, what has remained constant throughout the history of this country.

It is the American spirit that emerged in the aftermath of the attacks that reminds us why America was great then, and is great today.  The strength, unity and caring for our fellow man that somehow seems to get lost in our day-to-day lives, sprang forth stronger than ever.  It was that strength, that resolve that prepared the country for the challenges that lay ahead.

Even in the face of today’s economic crisis, it is that same unity and resolve that will bring this country through the good and the bad.  America has been blessed with enormous freedoms, and yes, prosperity.  But these blessings have not come without a price.

The tragic events of September 11, 2001, changed the face of America forever.  The terrorist attacks opened eyes and minds alike.  Americans had never before seen such catastrophic aggression fomented upon this nation, and admittedly, had not perceived terrorism as a threat to the country.  Ten years later, Americans are still trying to come to grips with the fact that terrorism is a reality, and that life and freedom are both fragile and dear.

There is no doubt that today we face a different world than we did 10 years ago.  But again, what remains constant, unwavering and solid is the American spirit that serves not only this country well, but other countries around the globe.

September 11 will always be remembered as one of the greatest tragedies in America’s history.  It should also be remembered as a time that united this nation. Let us learn from this great tragedy that the real strength of a country lies not in its landmarks nor in its financial wealth, but in its people.

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