Remembering 9/11

I was in History class when I heard about the horrific events that were occurring in New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. All of the TV's were tuned into the news, as we watched the beautifully, grand Twin Towers rapidly fall to the ground. Because of my young age, I couldn't grasp the meaning and consequences that this disturbing occurrence would have on our nation immediately; it took time for me to understand how great of an impact this had on our present and our future. We would never be the same.

Less than a year later, my family visited New York City and we were able to see the dark, gaping hole in the middle of this exciting, bright city. It was then that I truly realized how many people were effected by this tragedy. There were memorials at every corner telling thousands of stories. I will never forget that day, walking past dusty photos of the faces of people that were lost. There were flowers, stuffed animals, wreaths, newspaper clippings, notes from loved ones, even notes from those that didn't directly know someone that passed, but were still greatly impacted. We were all impacted that day.
(On this trip, I bought a large book of beautiful photographs from New York City, the World Trade Center being one of the first places mentioned. I believe this book had a large influence on my love and passion for photographing beautiful buildings and lines - I only wish I could photograph these more often.)

Last July, my husband and I vacationed in NYC and were able to visit the (almost opened) Freedom Tower and memorial. The Tribute in Lights would make their first grand appearance less than two months after our visit. Walking around the area that the World Trade Center once stood and seeing memorials almost 10 years old (at that time) was a great reminder of our countless freedoms and blessings.

Below are photos of our visit in 2011:

St. Paul's Chapel: a safe haven for many in a great time of need

 

"The most important thing was being able to smile and talk and hold a hand, give a hug, or just sit with one of the relief workers. That became a very addictive force."

 "They were so tired and they had so much on their minds that we had to think of every last need that they had and offer it to them before they realized they needed it." - Volunteer

 These are Japanese peace cranes, which represent a fraction of the thousands of gifts from children in Japan, some from the survivors of the W.W. II bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

 This fireman's empty jacket speaks volumes. We are so very thankful for the brave souls that serve this country.

May we never forget.