nmah864.xml

nmah864.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-09-03

I was teaching my 3rd period Sophomore English class when a teacher in the next room interrupted me to ask if I had my television on. I thought this was a funny question (why would I have the tv on during class time) so I asked why. But one of my students (a 15 year old boy) was able to guess. "We're being attacked," he said as I turned the tv on. Needless to say, my lesson plans for the day changed immediately as we watched the horror unfold before us. I will always hold a special place in my heart for these particular students because of this traumatic experience we shared together.

I can't really say that my life has changed because of 9-11, but my perspective certainly has. I know how vunerable we Americans really are; therefore, I tend to be greatful for all the blessings I have. And, I live with the knowledge that a horrible act like this could happen again.

First of all I think we should remember that we are not immune to the horrors of the world. We have been attacked, and could be again. Secondly, we should remember the heroes of this tragedy...from those who worked at Ground Zero, to those who gave selflessly in other ways--giving blood, sending donations, sharing with children.

Yes I flew an American flag after the 9-11 attacks, but I have always flown the flag. My parents instilled in me at a young age a very patriotic attitude. As a result, I proudly salute the flag, say the pledge, and thank my veterans with tears in my eyes. So no, my feelings about the flag have not changed. I have always been proud to be an American!