Our principal announced that the World Trade Center had been hit by an airplane and we weren't sure of the cause. I remember the sheer horror that filled the room. Many students ran out of the chapel in tears fearing that their mother, father, aunt, uncle, sibling, or friend had been harmed. I headed to my Geology class where there was a TV in the classroom. We sat in silence as we watched the Twin Towers fall to the ground, knowing that a second plane had hit the South tower, and this was by no means an accident. The rest of the school day was filled with tears, fear and confusion. I remember not being able to rap my mind around what was really happening. I didn't understand the monstrosity of it all. Not until, however, I saw the missing towers.
That afternoon, my family and I drove to Sandy Hook beach which gives a clear view of the NYC skyline. We sat in silence as we witnessed a very incomplete skyline. I remember feeling helpless. The Hudson River was the only thing separating my family and I from a devastating disaster where so many lives were taken and many in need of help.
That image will never leave my mind.
During church today, Psalm 23 was read to lead us in silence. I found it very fitting for such a somber day.
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
I fear no evil, for You are with me
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me
all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
9.11.01-9.11.11 Never Forget.
