nmah3899.xml

nmah3899.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-09-11

My best friend from high school was visiting for the week. We've known each other for over 50 years. We had just finished eating breakfast and the TV was on in the background. We were planning to leave shortly for Queens to help my Daughter's father-in-law who was running for Counselman. Ellen had gone to the bedroom to get dressed when I saw the images on TV of the first plane hitting. I remember thinking "how could this be possible". One of my first thoughts were that this has to be deliberate, since it was a clear day and the World Trade Center was clearly visible. Of course, when the 2nd plane hit - there was no longer a question of this being an "accident".
We drove to Dix Hills to pick up my daughter, only to find out that the primary had been cancelled. The rest of the day was a daze of hugging family, listening to radio or watching TV in disbelief, anger and sadness.
I vividly remember coming home later that day heading East on the Long Island Expressway and no cars were heading west. The only vehicles on that side of the Expressway were emergency vehicles heading into New York City. The emptiness of that road that usually holds bumper-to-bumper traffic was a solemn and frightening reminder of what was happening in New York City.
That evening, numerous friends from all over the country called to make sure we were alright and to find out if anyone we knew had been in the vicintity of the Trade Center. Fortunately, we were able to answer that we were fine and that noone we directly knew worked in the Trade Center or was a fire or police person in the area.

The hardest thing over the next couple of days was the overwhelming feeling of helplessness. While we joined others in collecting money and items to send into the City, nothing seemed enough. I guess we all wanted to do something to "make it better" knowing that nothing could "make it better"!!

Priorities in my life have changed. Family and friendships have taken precendence over other things. I am more fearful of traveling and cancelled trips scheduled for post 9/11.

..The brave men and women who risked their lives.
..The renewed patriotism
..People were more patient and friendly. Noone complained when standing in long lines, often using this as a chance to get to know others standing in line with you.
..The feeling of vulnurability

I flew a flag in front of my house, had one in my window (it still is there) and wore a flag pin. Prior to Sept. 11 I must admit, patriotism was not a word I often thought of. Sept. 11 has changed that. I am proud to be an American and prouder yet of how Americans have rallied together during this horrendous year.