Reflecting on 9-11: A Personal Journey

A Day to Remember

It was 2001. I was in the best shape of my life. I was doing things I never thought I would do. Not just the usual "Oh no, I never thought this would happen to me," but more like, "Holy crap, that was amazing!" I was out-running much younger people and out-shooting folks from Kentucky and Texas. I was in boot camp for the United States Army on 9-11!

Now it is 2025, and my "Army Birthday" is coming up. August 22 and 9-11 are two days I mark on my calendar every year. 9-11 is now called "Patriot Day." If I remember correctly, little kids will be wearing patriotic gear to school. When I was a teacher, I asked them, "Why are you all dressed like that?" They collectively replied, "Even though it's a sad day, we don't want the terrorists to win. We would rather celebrate the USA because we are still here as a country!" Those little kids are the future. They remind me that maybe we are okay after all.

Reflections on Tragedy

Every year around this time, I think about significant events. 9-11, the Holocaust, the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and now the Covid virus still lurking, along with herpes and HIV, are on my mind. And who could forget Chernobyl? As a behavioral health specialist, I can't help but wonder how different our world would be if we weren't so divided.

The Impact of History

These events shape our understanding of resilience and unity. They remind us of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit. Each tragedy carries lessons. They teach us about compassion, empathy, and the importance of coming together in times of crisis.

The Role of Education

Education plays a vital role in shaping future generations. As I witnessed in my classroom, children are eager to learn about history. They want to understand the past to build a better future. Teaching them about these events is crucial. It helps them appreciate the freedoms they enjoy today.

A Call for Unity

In a world filled with challenges, we must strive for unity. We can honor the memories of those lost by working together. We can create a society that values kindness and understanding. It is essential to remember that we are all in this together.

Conclusion

As we approach these significant dates, let us take a moment to reflect. Remember the past, honor those who have suffered, and commit to building a brighter future. Together, we can ensure that the lessons learned from history guide us toward a more compassionate world.