Tag Archives: 9/11

September 11th, 2008

Posted on September 11, 2008 | Comments Off on September 11th, 2008

WTC Fountain

As I mentioned the last two years, the above photo is from greatbuildings.com. This is how I want to remember the World Trade Center and the people I knew there, not the smoldering ruin or empty pit that it later became.

A lot has happened since last year. I did not intend to take the day off this year, but as it happened, I ended up working from home. This year, I find that remembering the the tragedy of that day does not hurt as much. In the past, I could not watch any of the many documentaries on account that I simply felt uncomfortable.

We’re now in another election cycle and the GOP is (for now) toning down the rhetoric. Frankly, while I blame the terrorist who actually did this evil act, 9/11 is, IMO, the GW Bush administration’s biggest failure, which is saying a lot as they demonstrate incompetence in most matters. Ironically, the GOP is touting Sen. McCain’s Vietnam experience (Gee, Any stupid, offensive purple heart Bandaids this time??? No?)

Music I’m listening to right Now:
Nothing. I’m just taking it easy today.

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September 11th, 2006 – Five years later

Posted on September 11, 2006 | Comments Off on September 11th, 2006 – Five years later

WTC Fountain

I will never forget where I was on September 11th, 2001 when the 1st plane hit. That Tuesday was such a nice, beautiful day and I drove in planning to go out that night. On the way in across the Midtown tunnel, I was listening to my car’s tape player so I was completely oblivious to what just happened.

By the time I got to my regular coffee stand the owner, Andrew, told me what he heard on his radio. Even after hearing it on the radio, I just couldn’t believe it. I thought “They must be wrong, it couldn’t be a jet!“. Of course, it was and by the time I reached my desk, the 2nd plane struck. Like so many people in NYC, I wondered if my friends and Family were ok.

That day and following week has been documented  over and over again so I’ll just summarize: Afterwards, I was one hell of a mess. I was sad, angry and scared for the future. In my anger, I abused my friends and co-workers, in my sadness and fear I was incredibly moody and not at all good company. I wasn’t depressed, but for a couple of weeks I was pretty close. After a while, one of the things I took from this tragedy is to appreciate my life and try not to take who I have in it for granted.

To that end, I take September 11th off to simply remember the people we lost and to think about what I have and where I want to be in my life. At this point in my life, I’m married to a wonderful lady, I have a great family and friends. It may be corny, but I’m happy and I hope I properly appreciate that.

Above is a photo from greatbuildings.com (Here is the link to the image). I went to college in Downtown Manhattan and later worked at The World Trade Center. I’ve had lunch, drank coffee, hung out, or crossed by that fountain more times than I can count.. This is how I want to remember the World Trade Center and the people I knew there, not the smoldering ruin or empty pit that it later became.

Courtesy of GreatBuildings.com (c) Lawrence A. Martin


Music I’m listening to right Now:
Nothing. I’m listening to the ceremony at Ground Zero on NBC.

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Posted in Different, Personal

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