11th Anniversary

Today is the 11th anniversary of the falling of the World Trade Center that happened on September 11, 2001.  It's a day of grief, and remembering those we lost.  It's a day that all Americans will have in their hearts for all time.

On that day I was 6 or 7 years old and I was sitting in my kitchen, doing my school work, as I was homeschooled.  The rest of my family was around the house.  My brother came into the kitchen and said "Uh, mom.  You might wanna turn on the TV."  So she did and we all watched the planes go into the towers.  I was young so I didn't really understand what was happening, but I did know that it was terrible and horrific.  My sister and mom were balling, and they only cry when something serious happens, so I knew that it was a big deal. 

This morning, when I realized the date, I remembered.  Off and on during school today I remembered.  My friend from New York mentioned how weird it was to be in Europe on 9/11 instead of back home.  She talked about how that day was for her, which was much more chaotic compared to mine because she was nearer to the actual site than I was. 

Later on, one of our friends from Europe came up and shook both our hands and offered his sentiments for 9/11.  It was extremely respectful and really neat to have someone do that.  I mean, up until now, I've always spent 9/11 in the States where remembering 9/11 is understood.  But being here, where it didn't happen, is kind of odd.  It reminded me that I represent my country here on the other side of the world.  I'm not just another one of the million Americans who mutually remember the day, but I'm an outsider here and I represent the USA.  So when he acknowledged us and our country and his genuine respect for us and everyone we lost on that day, it was very eye opening.  Because I really do represent America here, and I need to take that seriously.