I wasn’t going to post anything today. I sometimes worry that my words are not enough. But then I started reflecting on where I was and what happened on Tuesday, September 11, 2001. My story is like so many, it includes an ache and still shock about the horrific terrorist attacks. But there is more to my memories of that fateful day.
Early that morning I sat with my 92 year-old grandfather before he went to surgery to remove a sub dermal hematoma (blood clot) on his brain. It was the delayed result of a automobile accident. He was in good spirits and the doctors felt good about the surgery. The procedure went perfectly the doctor told us a few hours later. They couldn’t believe my grandfather was in his 90’s. Feeling relieved my husband and I went to wait for my grandfather in his hospital room.
We made it to his room around 8:30am and was watching the Today Show. We were chatting and talking and happy about my grandfather. I also think I called and wished one of my best friends happy birthday. Then while watching television my husband said “that’s the World Trade Center.” I couldn’t believe it but it was true. And while trying to wrap my head around watching tower one burn the second plane hit tower two.
The moments following are still difficult to remember. I recall a nurse screaming in the hall on her knees. Then there was news of the Pentagon being attacked and flight 93 going down. It was suspected that flight was going to the White House.
The happiness I felt earlier about my grandfather and the excitement about my friend’s birthday were gone. I remember also thinking about my mother whose planned last day at O’Hare Airport was that day. She was napping from working the night before but her coworker’s lives as all of ours were forever changed.
I remember September 11, 2001 every time I am in an airport security line. Before this date i could walk family and friends to their gate and hug them when they got off their flight. One of my best memories is taking my brother in law to the airport for a math/science camp after buying him new converse all-star high tops.
The majority of college students entering college this year where not yet born. They can only read about how things were before the tragic blue sky Tuesday in September. I imagine that it will be like the attack on Pearl Harbor almost 78 years on December 7, 1941, we will forever remember the date September 11, 2001. Over 3,000 lives were lost and more were impacted from immediate families to those of first responders. I pray, I always remember to honor the day with reverence.
