I like to keep this blog light. This is a place for commentary on fashion, beauty, weddings, events and other things that inspire me. I steer clear of political commentary, despite my geographical location and the fact this is an election year. There is more than enough heavy stuff out there in this world that it is far too easy to get weighed down in the muck and forget all the beauty that surrounds us.
However, on a day like today, September 11th, it is impossible to write about pencil skirts, polka dots or other pretty, but trivial things. I remember, 11 years ago, sitting in Mr. Peterson’s history class, ironically enough, learning about past events that defined our country. The teacher next door rushed into the room, frantically yelling that the World Trade Center had been bombed. Thinking this teacher must be misinformed, Mr. Peterson flipped on the classroom’s television only to find out that this teacher was in fact, misinformed. The World Trade Center had been hit by a plane. About 30 seconds later, we watched as a plane careened into the second tower.
We will never forget the events of September 11, 2001. A date defined by pain, hurt and loss. It was a day that changed the city of New York, and America, forever. More than a decade later, there are still no words to heal the pain, lessen the hurt or explain the loss.
There are no words, but there are actions. We returned acts of terror with acts of bravery, courage and faith. We came together, united as one nation founded on the principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We cried, mourned and endured together.
On September 11, 2001, we experienced evil, but Americans retaliated with good. We were reminded of the fragility and importance of life. We can take no moment, no day and no life for granted. We must live with conviction and love and without prejudice. We must never forget so that such a tragedy never happens again.