Remembering September 11: 20th anniversary

“I will never forget seeing what hate can destroy… I will never forget seeing what love can heal.” – Steve Maraboli

As America reaches the grim milestone marking the 20th anniversary of September 11, once again we should come together to reflect on the heartbreaking tragedy that united us as a nation.

September 11 was an attack on our homeland and our people, and its presence and loss are still felt years later.

With thousands of beautiful lives lost and countless affected, the attack meant to tear us down only strengthened our American spirit.

Firefighters, police, attendees on Flight 93 and local New Yorkers were the unsung heroes on September 11, 2001. Adding onto that, family, friends and Americans from every state were the heroes the days that followed.

On this day, we take a moment to remember those who unknowingly fell victim to the attacks and those who sacrificed themselves for the greater good of humanity.

This day proved that in times of misfortune, our nation is capable of coming together to lend a helping hand to a neighbor, to mourn the loss of a stranger, and to be a beacon of light where there is a temporary moment of darkness.

As each day brings on a new challenge, may we continue to look back on this one day. May we continue to look back on the America built on courage. May we continue to look back on the America built on unity.

Find some time to take a moment of silence for the ones who went to work or went on their flight who never saw what came after that.

Although a truly upsetting time in history, if we take anything from this time, may we remember what America is supposed to stand for.

Each year we remember the lives lost during September 11. Although we live in a country that is centered around freedom of opinion, we can collectively agree that September 11 was the day the Earth stood still for a split second in this world of chaos.

A memory of loss and shock but also of bravery, sacrifice and love is what Americans now share for the rest of time.