story4315.xml

story4315.xml

born-digital

story

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2002-09-11

The most shocking day I have ever witnessed in my 35 years. Never had I experienced such an event so close to home. I got up after the telephone had been ringing numerous times. I knew something was terribly wrong, when my husband picked up the telephone and turned on the television. I was 7 months pregnant at that time. I saw the images on the screen and I thought of a Hollywood production. That impression lasted about 30 seconds until I realized the reality of it all.

After having lived and worked in New York City for many years and knowing people who have worked inside and around the WTC, I immediately felt an overwhelming grief coupled with an immense fear. I was overcome with anger and sadness, as I could not understand how we can live on a planet in which our own kind can have such an arrogant disrespect for life. I was happy at the close birth of my child, and at the same time, I struggled with existential questions and pondered on how to put an innocent being into such a world. Today, my maternal feelings have naturally imposed an inner feeling in me that life will never be the same for my family. 2001 was the year our son was born as well as the year in which I witnessed a part of history I never thought could happen. I thought history had taught us something. But I also understood that ignorance still inhabits many parts of the world, and I am grateful to live in a corner of the planet which embraces civility and freedom. May we continue to fight for education and continue to cultivate the seeds of tolerance. May God bless our planet.
Marie Kamburoff, September 11, 2002