nmah407.xml

nmah407.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-08-23

I am an eighth grade English teacher and I remember walking down the hallway between classes. Another teacher on my team told me that we need to find a way to "explain it to the kids". I had no idea what she was talking about. She then told me that two planes were hijacked and slammed into the World Trade Center. I remember staring blankly at her and then pushing past her to watch the television in her classroom.

The hardest part of the day was trying to explain what had happened to my seventh period class. It gives me chills to realize that whenever these kids think of where they were that day and how they found out, it would be my face that would always come to mind.

I never EVER leave my house without kissing, hugging and telling my husband that I love him. An average morning for thousands of people ended so tragically and I am sure there are so many out there that did not get to say the things they wish they had.

I've also become quite leary of everyday activities. I don't have the same trust in people as I once did. It is sad and I hope I do gain some of that back.

I believe that average people can do extraordinary things. Many acts of heroism came from every day people. It's that part that gives me hope in humanity.

I did fly an American Flag up until June of this year. I then bought a whimsical patriotic flag. As a teacher, I say the Pledge of Allegiance every morning and recognize the flag at assemblies and sporting events. I have always had very strong feelings of pride when our flag is flown.