Photograph Credit: Flickr (GlynLowe)

With my brother being a fireman/paramedic, this day brings a special appreciation for those who put themselves in harm’s way while helping others.

Last night as I prepared for today’s school day, I thought about what I wanted to share with my children about the day America was attacked from within. Though over a decade ago, the events of that day still play like a movie in my memory. I went to bed thinking about those events.

As I awoke this morning and came to our morning meeting, I informed my children that today was a unique day. We talked about the different sites and some of the events. They were filled with questions without anxiety about their safety.

Though we spent time remembering 9.11, I was a bit disappointed in the NFL’s choice to focus on the writing of our National Anthem over a 9.11 tribute for tonight’s game. However, I heard that the presentation of the anthem’s anniversary was spectacular.

Remembering 9.11 is fading for some, but there are those who still daily live with the emptiness and hurt from that unique day. Those images and memories are imprinted into my mind as I spent days glued to the television in awe that something so devastating occurred on American soil.

Permanently affected by those events, my heart surges with gratefulness for all first responders, military personnel, and healthcare individuals who daily serve and protect Americans. Thank you for your service each and every day!

Question: How did you remember 9.11?

Photograph Credit: Microsoft Images

Eleven years ago, the world changed. The attack of one group put the entire world on edge and glued to the media coverage. I remember watching the coverage for days. Do you remember where you were?

Tuesday Morning

As a legal assistant with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Pennsylvania, I remember how routine my morning had been. Around 9:00 a.m., I was working alone in my office. Needing a few documents for a case, I called the assigned agent.

At the conclusion of our call, he said, “You be very careful.” The comment took me by surprise since my office was in a federal courthouse. I had a panic button and numerous U.S. Marshals, who could come to my aid within a minute. Why did I need to be careful?

After repeating the comment back to him, he realized that I had no idea what was going on. The agent said, “Tracy, you need to turn on the television.” Thanking him for the information, I hung up.

Without a television in our office space, I walked down the hall to the Senator’s office, who always had C-Span going. As I entered their office, I met the shocking video of a plane crashing into the South Tower. I sank into a chair awed and mesmerized by the vivid pictures of the attacks.

Between phone calls, the Senator’s aid came out to see if anything had changed. When the report of the Pentagon attack aired, our presiding Judge evacuated the building. I remember going back to my office, calling my husband, and leaving.

The Rest of Tuesday

Usually going home at 9:45 a.m. on a workday would mean a play day, but not that day. I don’t remember the ride home on the bus, but I remember walking into the apartment building. The office manager came running out to meet me. Knowing where I worked, she embraced me asking what I knew which ended up being less than what she knew.

As I maneuvered past her, I went to our apartment. I turned on the television to hear that a fourth plane crashed in Pennsylvania and the North Tower of the World Trade Center had collapsed. After changing my clothes, I curled up on the couch with my blanket. Camped out for the day, I prayed, cried, and watched the reports, the smoke, and the devastation.

For me, I will never forget Tuesday, September 11, 2001. The events of that day are still freshly imprinted in my memory. Though I sat most of the day, many first responders were sacrificing their health to assist, find, and reunite others.

Thank you to all first responders, military personnel, air-traffic controllers, and our government leaders!

On this day of remembrance, I reflect on America. With an election year on the horizon, Americans will not see eye to eye, and my one vote really doesn’t make a difference. But I serve a holy God, who has already written the events of history. I can depend on Him which is all I need for comfort, safety, and security. Praise His Name!

Question: Do you remember your morning events on Tuesday, September 11, 2001?