Dear Children,
I may not have known anyone personally affected by that tragic day in history, which some might argue makes my account of September 11, 2001, less relevant. At that time, I was simply an ordinary individual heading to work.
As the anniversary approaches each year, I find it puzzling that your schools don’t cover this significant event more extensively. I realize you’re in third and seventh grades, and perhaps it’s perceived that you’re too young to learn about acts of terrorism. Or maybe it’s because you weren’t born yet. It could also be that the timing coincides with the beginning of a new school year.
I have faith that eventually, your education will delve into various aspects of 9/11, such as the sequence of events, the role of al-Qaeda, the heroism of first responders, and the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security. Nonetheless, what may be lacking in those lessons is an understanding of how that day transformed life for average Americans, including people like your father and me.
I was 30 years old when terrorists claimed nearly 3,000 lives in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. Your dad and I had just celebrated our seventh wedding anniversary, contemplating starting a family while striving to establish our careers. After completing my master’s degree, I had been in the workforce for four years. That morning, when I arrived at work, the doorman informed me that a plane had struck the World Trade Center. I initially thought it was just a tragic accident, akin to when a small plane once hit the Empire State Building.
I was terribly mistaken.
When terror unfolded on September 11, 2001, the America I knew came to a halt and subsequently transformed. I want you to understand how it changed.
Did you know that prior to 9/11, I didn’t own a cell phone? Your dad had one for his sales job, and I knew college students who did, but I was without one. On that day, victims in the World Trade Center used their cell phones to reach out to loved ones, leaving messages. Suddenly, having a cell phone seemed not just useful, but essential. After 9/11, I purchased my first cell phone to ensure I could always connect with your dad.
Did you realize that before 9/11, news channels didn’t have scrolling tickers? The only exception was a business channel that displayed stock market updates. On that day, news outlets introduced tickers to keep up with the overwhelming flow of information regarding the attacks, victims, and perpetrators. Nowadays, these tickers are ubiquitous, and at times I find myself frustrated when they display trivial information. “That’s not what tickers are meant for,” I think.
Did you know that flying used to be enjoyable? Sure, you had to go through metal detectors, and your luggage was screened, but I don’t recall long lines or significant inconveniences. People could accompany their friends or family to the gate, even if they weren’t flying. The air travel you’ve experienced is starkly different — with extensive security measures and long waits to outsmart potential threats. This is a necessary compromise for our safety.
Did you know that after 9/11, all air traffic was suspended for several days? I vividly remember the eerie quiet of the skies. You don’t realize how many planes fill the airspace until it’s suddenly silent. That absence was a haunting reminder of the upheaval we experienced. I sincerely hope you never encounter that silence.
Did you know that for years after 9/11, I couldn’t bear to watch anything related to it? The emotions were too raw. Even today, as the anniversary approaches, I often find myself in tears. This feeling stems from the shock and sadness of those initial weeks, dominated by continuous reports of tragedy on television. It’s a barrage of sorrow that lingers in the mind long after.
However, I don’t want you to feel disheartened about 9/11. My wish is for you to be informed, brave, and resilient regarding what transpired. The America you know may also face changes due to acts of terror in the future. While 9/11 is part of our narrative, it does not define our conclusion.
Lastly, I want you to remember this: I love you today, tomorrow, and always. My experience during 9/11 taught me to express to my loved ones just how much they mean to me.
With love,
Mom
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Summary
This letter reflects on the lasting impact of the 9/11 attacks, emphasizing its significance in shaping modern American life. It encourages future generations to understand the changes that occurred and to value their connections with loved ones.