As an 18 year old I awoke on September 11, 2001, to get on the computer and have someone tell me to turn on the news. When I did I was saddened and scared. I remember looking outside when i first woke up and said, "wow what a beautiful day. I think I'll go to the beach." Little did I know that in less than 5 minutes that beautiful day would fade into nonexistance for in the seconds that it took for the picture to be clear on the TV i knew of the tragedy. There are a million thoughts that ran through my head, I think the first one was EVA, all i know that she was at NYU and where the WTC buildings were in relation to that I had no idea, I was just worried. But I was relieved. I was relieved time after time again, when I talked to each member of my family and friends, my Uncle Bud in Washington, Mr. Cottrell since he works at Amtrak, Michelle in Pittsburg, Melissa, and all the people I love. This tragedy has changed the lives of americans, never again will we take our flag, the national anthem or the pledge of allegiance for granted. We stand tall, united, loving one another more than ever before. On Sept 11, I never got to the beach. My suitemates and I gathered in my room and were mesmerized by what was going on outside of our little UNCW community. I got a phone call from Faith, because the news failed to mention where in PA the plane went down. I eased her pain, but we are and were all still very scared. For the next few days things on campus were different. It was quiet, and the only sounds that could be heard anywhere were the echoes of the TV, the same station as you walked to your dorm or as you walked to class. People looked each other in the eyes, and felt connected altough they had never seen one another before. Campus was also frustrating, because there were the people who just thought of it as "we're safe, its in the north," and that hurt all the northerners more than words can say. Im not sure if it was Sept 11 or the 12th that i first learned about a hero, someone who I felt connected to although they I had never met them. i heard of sadness from his neighbor, and I cried at the story that unfolded before me. Todd Beamer, neighbor of George, died a hero on Flight 93 that crashed in PA. He died trying to save the lives of people on the ground. Todd Beamer along with three other men devised a plan to overtake the hijackers and in one way it was successful, but the results were still devastating. Todd Beamer left behind his wife and two kids and a baby on the way. Lisa Beamer has touched my heart. SHe is so incredibly strong, and so incredibly amazing. I watched her stand tall at the presidential address as she was recognized. I heard of a news special and how my parents were touched so much they were moved to tears just as I was. She is a true role model. I know there are people who are just as devestated by the loss of there loved ones and I keep those in my prayers. I thank God for te heroes, the fire fighters, policemen, and civilians that risked their lives for their country, for people they didnt even know. We as americans are truly blessed.
This is my experience on the sept. 11 events. I stand behind our nation and just want to say I LOVE YOU. Please share your thoughts if you so wish. |
