You'd Have Loved Every Note

September 11 means a lot of different things for different people. For me, it evokes two memories.

In 2001, I was only in the 9th grade. I remember sitting in my classroom before school started (I always got there hella early...yeah, I was that kid). There were only a couple of us, and our teacher wasn't there yet. It was my Advanced English/History class. I hated that class...but that's beside the point. Another one of our classmates walked in and said that a plane had flown into the World Trade Center. I don't think most of my classmates even knew what that was. My mom had worked there just a couple years prior, so I had at least heard of it.

I remember watching United Flight 175 when it hit the second tower. Everyone was still in shock from the first plane, and certainly couldn't have expected it would happen twice. As students filed into the classroom, everyone became completely transfixed by the events unfolding on the TV in the corner. Everyone in the building watched as the towers fell.

No one knew what to think.

That day completely transformed the nation we live in. Today's children have grown up in a police state, and only know war. As they get older, they'll only know the hatred and misery that became so rampant after that day. Even most of what I know is the post-9/11 world.

Today holds another significance for me. Four years ago, a tragic accident cut short the life of a friend of mine. She was an amazing young woman; she had a gift for languages, an infectious smile, and room in her heart for everyone. Today would have been her 27th birthday.

Along with many of my fellow Americans, today will be a day of reflection and prayer for me. And studying, because that is never-ending...

I also want to express my appreciation for all those serving in our armed forces. We would not be where we are today without their hard work, dedication and sacrifice. And a big thank you as well to all of the military families, who also must make great sacrifices. It's the strength of all of these people that make it possible for everyone else to continue living their lives. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.