Remembering 9/11

Like many horrific events that happen in our lifetime, we remember where we were that day. I remember driving to my consulting position at Alcon Laboratories, Inc . as the events began to unfold. Throughout the morning all were somber and glued to televisions and the internet for updates. We were calling the schools of our children to see how they were handling the events. We checked in with our spouses, our parents, our friends to make sure everyone was okay. Gradually, businesses and schools were offering closures or early release. As I drove to pickup my children, the skies were empty, no airplanes, an eerie calmness blanketed the city.

 

Today we remember those that lost their lives in 9/11 and the continued effects that it has on those directly affected through relations, friends, or merely as a citizen of this nation.

I reflect on what happened after that terrifying event and remember the way our nation and community had such a sense of unity and compassion. I remember the flags that flew from our cars, the kindness we shared with our neighbors, and the putting aside of political alliances for a period of time. We were changed; we were kinder and we held our family and friends closer to us. May we continue to honor those that lost their lives that day and continue to be grateful for the blessing of the freedoms we share in the United States of America. God Bless America!

Carolyn Helbert-Green, O.D.