A Dark Morning with Brighter Hearts
September 11, 2001 is a day of great significance for many people across the world. As two passenger jets slammed into both World Trade Center towers in New York City, the hearts of millions were shattered. Members of many nations perished in that tragic attack in September. Although many died and families were crushed that day, it was a defining moment for all of humankind. Through the dust and smoke, people all around the world found a renewed sense of humanity and strength. September 11th shows how the citizens of this planet, despite great differences and difficulties, can find a way to break through all barriers and act as unified members of the human family.
On September 11th, nearly three-thousand people lost their lives. Of those who died, some were police officers, firefighters, and other public servants. These men and women were not soldiers and were not trained to handle an attack of such a great magnitude. Nevertheless, as they saw the towers burning and crumbling apart, they stepped forward to risk their lives for other men and women whom they had never met before. They were not putting their lives on a platter for their friends or families. They were not risking everything for their children. They were willing to die for duty, love, and compassion for other human beings, with the knowledge that they would receive nothing in return. These brave heroes are proof that humans in general are still caring and compassionate people, regardless of culture or circumstance.
After the World Trade Center towers collapsed, hundreds of people assisted in sifting through the rubble. Throughout the wreckage left behind after the attacks were fires, sharp debris, electrical hazards, and the ever-present possibility of falling through the mess. Death and injury were very likely possibilities for the people searching through the remains of the towers. However, those dangers didn’t deter those who had a desire to help. People were suffering and dying in the wreckage and the knowledge of that fact was what brought together all the people who risked their lives or died searching for survivors. Because of human suffering, the lives of hundreds became connected through a common cause.
The progress made in New York over the past ten years is astounding! A beautiful monument made to symbolize what was lost that day has been erected in the exact spot upon which the towers used to stand. A building, built to be stronger, sturdier and taller than any other in America, is being built right next to “Ground Zero”. This final example shows the strength of the human spirit. American’s have been thought of as arrogant and privileged for many years. After the attacks on September 11th, 2001, we have proven different to the rest of the world. We have proven not that we are arrogant and privileged, but that we, regardless of trial, tribulation, and change, are still human.
It’s now ten years from the attacks of September 11th and people across the globe are still connected through this one horrible act of human treachery. The blood that was spilt on that horrible September morning is still remembered, not only by those who suffered and lost, but also by all who still possess the compassion, love, and hope that humankind has been blessed with. We are a species that is capable of feeling and sympathizing with the pain of others. Throughout history with all its wars and disasters, humans have never failed to act united in purpose to relieve the suffering of others. Despite the effects which still linger from that tragic day, the terrorists who sacrificed their lives so that we would lose our hope, failed. As a nation, we are still bruised from the horrible display of malice displayed that day. We still mourn for those who perished in those towers. Nevertheless, we continue to stand strong and live our lives. September 11, 2001 is proof that no matter the lengths that people will go to break our spirit, we are now and will always be united and care for those who suffer.