story172.xml

story172.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-03-07

September 11, 2001 was a very memorable day. The first I heard on the attack on America was on my way into work at the University of California San Diego. I have about a 25 mile commute so I listened to the earthshattering news the entire way in. At first I was stunned and in shock. Fear overtook me - I have a brother in Saudi Arabia - would he be safe??? Gradually the fear shock and fear wore off and then anger came into the picture - How could someone murder thousands of innocent people who had done nothing to them??? I found myself very emotional and turning to God in silent prayer several times throughout the day. I watched the news on TV for a long time that night - I can no longer watch the second plane hitting the World Trade Center - that news frontage makes me physically ill. I was and continue to be very, very sad about the whole incidence and the current war. My parayers are now for the entire world - enemies as well as our own people. The famous photo of the 2 angels standing over the weary firefighter still brings tears to my eyes. The courage and love that was displayed that day made me very proud to be an American.
Now a great deal of time has passed since the first incidence however I find myself being more empathetic with my loved ones - I always tell my family I loved them before I hang up the telephone and I find I am giving more people the benifit of the doubt. I realize that we are only given TODAY and that we had better make the most of it. The United States of America is the finest country in the world and we must do our very best to preserve that freedom. Lastly, I feel more vulnerable regarding personal safety and financial security however I have always and do more so now just put today in Gad's hands and give thanks for my loved ones.