09/11/2020
To me, this message and memory, on this day, are more important than ever. We never forget so that those lost will remain honored and cherished. We never forget so that the virtues that brought us together amidst tragedy may be shared and upheld as brothers and sisters. Fellow Americans. And we never forget that evil didn’t triumph then, and it won’t triumph now. Nor will it ever. We are one people, meant to love and be loved. On that day, just as it is today, we can remember who we truly are, even amidst tragedy. Maybe doing so will inspire others to do the same. And in that way, however small, maybe we can try to be heroes like so many who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11th.
Remember, that we may inspire good.
“8th grade, 3rd period history class. Every September I always remember the feeling I had, what it meant to me, and especially what it meant for so many others affected by an act of hate.
Four years ago, I got to meet a police captain of the NYPD. It was 4th of July, and on a day of celebration, he took us to Ground Zero. We reflected on the fact that freedom isn't free, grateful for this precious gift we have that is worth protecting. Worth fighting for. Worth remembering. When I looked back into his eyes, I saw a different set of reflections. They told the story without saying a word.
He was there that day. He saw everything, he responded to the call when he was needed. He lived through the horror, aiding others that they may do the same.
I thanked him for his service and for what his occupation stands for, understanding then that to some of us, 9/11 is a distant memory of shock and sorrow. To others like him, it was a defining event of horrors I can't imagine, but one he survived to live another day. To live in freedom and the truth that as Americans, as humans, we will never let hate win. No matter where or when it may arise.
9/11. Never forget.”