A top to-do on my recent trip to New York was to visit the 9/11 memorial site. 20 years later I finally visited the memorial where many lost their lives. I still can’t believe everything that happened that day in this exact spot. Do you remember where you were and what you were doing on September 11, 2001? I do. I was 15 years old living in NY, sitting in my classroom at North Rockland High School. My classmates, teacher and I were in shock trying to comprehend what was happening. We were worried about family & loved ones we had in the buildings. I’ll never forget the shredding cries of the teacher across the hallway because her son worked in one of the buildings. Thankfully he didn’t make it to work that day, like many I know. Many stayed behind because they were sick or their cars didn’t start. What they thought was bad luck was a miracle that saved their lives. Everyone has a story of 9/11 they will never forget.
Many innocent lives were lost meeting a tragic end; hardworking people, moms, dads, sons, daughters, grandparents, friends, policemen, firemen, pilots, paramedics and more. On that day are hearts were broken but we were made stronger and more united than ever.
Even though I still lived in New York years after this tragedy happened I never wanted to visit, it was just to heartbreaking. I’m grateful to have visited even after so many years. That day will always be a reminder of how fragile life is. We are here now but don’t know where we’ll be tomorrow. Love and live life to the fullest. Forgive and don’t hold grudges. Fill your life with positivity, peace, love and happiness.
Be Lovely, Be you
Charlene Gonzalez
