Episodic Memories-What was the day like for me?
I remember.
It was a beautiful, cloudless day. The temperature warmed your skin. I was in 9th grade. I brimmed with excitement as the day marked my first varsity home field hockey game. Per tradition, I was dressed up--a magenta-patterened skirt and magenta shirt from Old Navy with white shoes. (I never wore it again.)
I was in 2nd period Latin II with Ms. Cullen. We heard a pounding on the back door of the trailor. It was her mom. Something had happened at the Pentagon. They couldn't get ahold of her father.
In 3rd period World History with Mr. Lee, I watched live the first tower collapse on CNN. I did not understand the enormity. I knew I was watching what would parallel my Mom's memory of the assassination of JFK. I could go show you where my desk was.
Then, to be frank, I had to be slipped home by my mother (who worked at the school) because I'd sat all morning glued to the events and it was that time of the month. As we drove, we talked about how gorgeous the day was here yet all hell was breaking loose miles away. A paradox. A horrible paradox.
All games and practice were cancelled. We went home. All TVs were tuned to different news outlets. Dad said the prayer at supper. We drove out to check on the Federal Reserve.
Dale Jr won the NASCAR race after 9/11. I read the book about Todd Beamer's life.
I can still hear the chime of the bell at the memorial service a year afterward as they read every name.
Iconic Memories-What did the day look life for me?
Semantic Memories-What is now my representation of 9/11?
September 12, 2001 begins what I now remember. 9/11 now reminds me of how life can change in a heartbeat. The everyday moments of life matter. Typical days should be glorified. The heart of the human binds us all. Strangers do not exist. Hatred does exist. But, love can overcome it. Good outweighs bad. Many ask where was God on 9/11? He/she was right there. In the middle of it all. In the middle of us all. His love shone through by the aid, donations, support, and outpouring of resources--both tangible and intangible. 'Let's roll' will never be heard nor said by me without me breaking into goosebumps. I don't look at the Pentagon the same. I fly. Fear will not grip me. I am proud to be an American. They were heroes. Rather make a resolution, I should join the cause.
You impacted millions.
For me, September 11, 2001, you made me grow up, you made me experience feelings and sights I never could have imagined nor would have liked to, you blatantly introduced me a new world.
I choose this. Love.
Sincerely,
Me
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