by Super Kristi
I woke up this morning lost in a memory. On the days leading up to this 10th anniversary of 9/11 I’ve heard many talk about it. I’ve watched numerous specials on tv about the heroes and children of 9/11. I’ve read thousands of tributes posted on 911day.org. But, in the midst of all this celebration and remembrance, trying to figure out the best way to serve our community on this national day of service, I wasn’t remembering. But today… today, I remember.
It was my freshman year of college. I woke up to my radio alarm as usual but there was something different. There wasn’t music, only stressed and fearful voices from men who were usually laughing at their own jokes and making fun. What did they just say? What are they talking about? It took me a few moments to wrap my head around the fact that whatever they were talking about- it was happening now. I don’t remember what time it was when I jumped out of bed. I half walked/half ran to the dorm common room where dozens of other girls had already gathered. They were all staring at the television. Just as I sat down, the second plane hit the south tower. A lot of the girls around me were crying. Some girls were debating whether or not to go to class. No one left the room for what seemed like hours.
When my head and my heart were so full that I could not bare to watch anymore, I retired to my room. The radio was still on, still recounting the tragedy that broke America’s heart. What do I do now? I didn’t know whether to be angry or sad. Frustrated or furious. I thought about all the people trapped inside the towers. All the people still trying to get them out. My mom called. She wanted to make sure I was ok. I don’t really remember the conversation, only that she asked if I had seen, I said everyone had and that she mentioned she couldn’t get a hold of my sister. Becky was at school in Flagstaff, she was a journalist. I called her to ease my mind and my mom’s but she was busy. That afternoon, I tried to join the military. I wanted to fight back.
I don’t remember much else about the events of that day. Just that we were all glued to our radios, to our televisions, and most importantly- to each other. I hugged I don’t know how many people that day. Sat with people I didn’t know. Listened to people I had never spoken to. And at once, all of our community, and all of America was family.
In the end, I couldn’t join the military because of my many ailments. But I’ve found other ways to serve my country. I support my community. I support our heroes. I volunteer to help those in need. And I remember those we’ve lost- not just on 9/11. Not just in the years since 9/11. But all the men and women who have died supporting this nation that stands for freedom and justice for all.
This afternoon, I am going to celebrate our community and our heroes at the Celebration of Heroes at La Encantada.
Today, on the 10th Anniversary of these tragic events, what are you doing to remember? Will you join the 9/11 Tribute Movement?
