Patriot Day is commemorated each year in the United States, in memory of those killed in the September 11, 2001 attacks. Flags are flown at half-mast, and a moment of silence is observed, beginning at 8:46 a.m.: the time the first plane struck the north tower of the World Trade Center.
Quotes from 9/11 survivors and victim family members
Some of which are quite relevant today:
“If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short, and there is no time for hate.” –wife of flight 93 pilot
“On September 11 I always take the day off. I want to be in a peaceful quiet place praying. It is a day I both mourn and celebrate.” –Genelle Guzman-McMillan, 9/11 survivor
“I give speeches around the country. I tell how Stanley and I made our way out of the tower. Life is precious, I tell them. It can be gone in an instant.” –Brian Clark, 9/11 survivor
“I still have the shoes I wore to work that day. The soles are melted and they’re caked in ash. I keep them in a shoebox with the word “deliverance” written all around it. They’re kind of like my ark, a reminder of God’s presence and the life I owe to Him.” –Stanley Praimnath, 9/11 survivor
“I may never know the answers to the questions that plagued me after 9/11. But I know if we lean on God and each other, we will be guided to a better, brighter future.” –Michael Hingson, 9/11 survivor
“One of the worst days in American history saw some of the bravest acts in American history.” –former President George W. Bush
“Even the smallest act of service, the simplest act of kindness, is a way to honor those we lost; a way to reclaim that spirit of unity that followed 9/11.” –former President Barack Obama
9/11 memorial in NYC
Visiting the 9/11 memorial in New York City is a must for every American. It is a humbling and somber experience; a reminder that life is fragile and tragedy unexpected.
On each of the victims’ birthdays, a white rose is placed by their name. There is at least one birthday each day of the year, so these white roses can be found year round. It makes the experience much more personal: reminding us that these are more than just names on a plaque. These were real people and true heroes who were loved by many.
Despite each of our differences, it’s prudent for everyone to come together–loving, respecting, and supporting one another; much the same way we did in the days following that horrific attack on America. ❤️
