It is Sunday, September 11, 2011.
I remember Tuesday, September 11, 2001 as if it were yesterday. I remember that I was teaching and didn't have to be to work until later than usual on Tuesdays. I remember Matt Lauer and Katie Couric on the Today show talking more than usual and leaving my kitchen to go back into the living room to see what was going on. I remember talk of one plane hitting the World Trade Center, then another. I remember calling my Dad, who was in his car, and my Mom who was at the chiropractor. I called the library where she worked first, forgetting she had that appointment. When my morning classes were done, I remember calling my Dad, a state employee who had been sent home. I remember him saying, "They hit the Pentagon, too." and that the second tower had also fallen. I remember it as if it were yesterday.
I remember going to church that night, an impromptu gathering. I had just had Frankfurter for a week or two. As a tiny puppy, he slept on my lap as we prayed.
Even though I have seen it many times, it hurts just as much to see the planes hit and the towers fall, the Pentagon on fire, and the empty field where flight 93 went down. It is just as bad today as it was ten years ago.
I have the same reaction every time, although I don't realize it until minutes later. Every single time, I realize my hand is at my mouth. It is placed there in a silent gasp. Although I know what is coming, this time I hope it will be different and that it won't happen. I know that's silly and naive, but it is always my prayer.
To the families and friends of those lost in United 93, the Pentagon, and the World Trade Center towers, my prayers are with you continuously. To the many workers who are ill from breathing the toxic air at Ground Zero and those suffering with the images they saw in those days following September 11th, I pray for you and your families as well. To the service men and women, who are not safe tonight because they are fighting to ensure my safety, you and your families are also in my prayers. This is not a one time prayer because of the date but one that started ten years ago and will continue for many, many more.
May God bless you and may God bless America.
Angela
