One Event

September 11, 2001. I was in my second class of the day in sixth grade, history. I'm not quite sure what we were learning about, but I remember the female teacher from across the hall running into our classroom, whispering something into my teachers ear, and both of them starting to cry. Then, my teacher turned on the television to the news. While it was still on mute, he said, "Class, I've heard and continue to believe that in each person's life there will be one event, likely tragic, that will change history and the course of their lives forever. These events have spanned history, but they will be events in which you remember where you were at the time, who you were with, what you were doing. Today, unfortunately, I believe will be one of those days. Unfortunately, I believe today is history in the making. Please, stay calm, and watch this broadcast. Remember this day, because this is a day that will change your lives." And with that, he turned the volume on and we began to watch the chaos happening in New York City at the World Trade Center.

Thirteen years later, and I still remember that speech word-for-word. I remember where I was sitting in that classroom, who I was sitting next to, what I was wearing that day, and the feeling and mood throughout the classroom. I remember not fully grasping what was happening. Thirteen years later, and I remember the feelings and emotions of that day.

Always Remember, Never Forget.